OPINION
Newcastle forward Aleksandar Mitrovic could be handed a huge opportunity in the Carabao Cup against Nottingham Forest and he must seize it to impress manager Rafael Benitez.
The 22-year-old has watched from the bench in the opening two games of the Premier League as the Magpies have slipped to two consecutive defeats.
They have failed to score in either of the Tottenham and Huddersfield losses, with Dwight Gayle unable to provide the cutting edge in attack for his side.
Mitrovic is yet to get his chance this season, but the striker could lay down a marker on Wednesday night in the cup.
Newcastle host Championship outfit Forest in the League Cup and the Serbia international may get a chance to show his qualities.
The central striker position seems to be up for grabs at St James’ Park this campaign and the arrival of Joselu from Stoke this summer provides further competition.
Mitrovic will need to show his ability against Forest and prove that Benitez must include him in the Premier League set-up moving forward.
The commanding forward has the physical presence to trouble defenders and scored nine times during Newcastle’s last outing in the Premier League.
He stuck with the North East club last season and scored six goals during their promotion from the Championship, but still needs to convince the manager he can lead the line.
Mitrovic has shown on the international stage that he has brilliant ability and has scored nine times in 27 caps for Serbia, while his physical presence would give his club side a different dimension.
A strong display in the cup against Forest could be the perfect platform to help Mitrovic force his way into the team for the Premier League fixture and their next league game is at home to West Ham on Saturday,