Former Liverpool and Tottenham midfielder Jamie Redknapp believes that attacking midfielder Miguel Almiron will hold the key for the Magpies this season – but is he right?
The 25-year-old joined back in January in a then club-record deal from Atlanta United, making 10 appearances under Rafael Benitez last season.
And talking to the Mail Online, cited by The Chronicle, Redknapp called for the Paraguay international to step up in his first full season with the club.
Michael Owen’s club record £16.8million move to Newcastle in 2005 was finally broken when Rafa Benitez brought in Almiron for £20m from Atlanta in January.
You could see why Benitez fancied him. Almiron showed glimpses of what he can do in the second half of last season.
Now Newcastle have lost attacker Ayoze Perez to Leicester, not got striker Salomon Rondon back and Benitez is in China. The club feels in turmoil.
Almiron will be one of those who needs to stand up and I’m looking forward to seeing what he’s got.
Read Newcastle verdict
The creative midfielder looks set to play a key role in the upcoming campaign, but he’ll need to adapt to his new teammates fairly quickly.
The South American will be without Ayoze Perez and Salomon Rondon and will have to strike up a new relationship with exciting summer additions Allan Saint-Maximin and Joelinton.
Almiron showed last season he can light up St James’ Park, and he will need to perform on a consistent if the Magpies are to enjoy a productive season under Steve Bruce.
If he can get off to a good start, the dynamic playmaker could end up being one of the club’s star performers over the next nine months.
In terms of holding the key to the club’s overall performance, the expectation shouldn’t be placed solely on his shoulders. However, Almiron at the top of his game will only help Bruce and co as they aim to improve on their 13th place finish last season.
