Miguel Almiron showed plenty of promise after joining from Atlanta United in January.
The Paraguay international was Rafael Benitez’s major signing six months ago and went on to make 10 appearances under the Spaniard last season.
Almiron, who is still yet to register a goal or an assist on Tyneside, has struggled during the opening two Premier League fixtures under Steve Bruce, which has led to plenty of criticism.
Former England international Danny Mills has been the latest to give an opinion the playmaker.
Talking exclusively to Football Insider, Mills said:
It’s interesting, isn’t it? He was highlighted on Match of the Day, I think he had a few good games when he first came to the club and I was one of those sceptics that said we don’t know much of him.
He did sign for Rafa Benitez, so has his opinion changed? Does he feel quite as special and as wanted, does he understand what the manager wants from him? Maybe not.
As I say, Match of the Day highlighted it, he wasn’t getting in the box. The ball was out wide and this is supposed to be your goal-scoring midfielder, your number 10, and he’s nowhere near, he’s not breaking his neck to get in the box.
You have to look at it and think he’s flattered to deceive last season.
So, should Almiron be left out of the side for the trip to Tottenham?
Read Newcastle verdict
We think Bruce could well decide to leave him out. The 25-year-old may well be sacrificed for a more defensive-minded midfielder as the Magpies look to snatch a draw on their first visit to Spurs’ new stadium.
It probably won’t go down well with Newcastle fans, however, with Almiron struggling to affect the game in the final third, it could actually be a smart decision away at a top-six side.
Bruce should certainly stick with the South American in the long run, though. He could well hold the key to unlocking defences against lower placed sides across the course of the campaign, which could effectively keep them in the Premier League.
If Almiron is left out against Spurs, Magpies fans should expect the dynamic midfielder to return at the end of the month at home to Watford.
