Wijnaldum vindicated Newcastle purchase - McClaren

Steve McClaren feels that Gini Wijnaldum has already proven he is Premier League class.

The 24-year-old Dutch midfielder fired home four goals as Newcastle United opened their season account in style with a 6-2 result at home over Norwich City on Sunday.

The former PSV Eindhoven captain, who cost the Magpies £14.5 million in the summer, scored in the 14th, 26th, 66th and 85th minutes to lead the Toon to a massive win while winning the plaudits from his grateful boss.

"You saw today what he is capable of doing, which is why we brought him here," McClaren said.

"He can be and will be and showed today that he's a Premier League player."