Islam Slimani has spoken of his desire to stay at Newcastle beyond the end of the season, the Leicester Mercury reports.
The Algerian joined Newcastle on deadline day after struggling for game-time at Leicester, featuring in just 20 games in all competitions this season, scoring just the five goals.
I’m just on loan at the minute but if I could stay here I’d be very happy, so let’s see how it goes.
The striker is yet to make an appearance for the Magpies due to an ongoing injury, but will be hoping to get back on to the pitch soon and make a difference for a Newcastle side who are in high spirits after an incredible 1-0 home win against Manchester United.
It has not yet been confirmed when Slimani will return to action and when he does, he has promised to give his all to help his team’s survival bid.
My objective is to score goals, give my best and really fight for this team
Slimani revealed that he received interest from various clubs in January but the belief Rafa Benitez shown in his ability swayed the 29-year-old to St. James’ Park.
The big difference is that he (Benitez) trusts me and when you have the trust of your coach, that’s very important. They trusted me at Leicester, it’s not that I wasn’t trusted, I started well but then I was dogged by bad health and injuries.
He (Benitez) phoned me and we had a good chat. There was a good feeling between us and it’s important to get a like this, to know you’re wanted by a big coach like him.
Newcastle travel to Bournemouth in their next match, a team who are back in the relegation fight after a thumping 4-1 loss to Huddersfield today.
