Jamie Redknapp believes Aleksandar Mitrovic can be the key in helping Newcastle avoid an instant return to the Championship this season after he scored against West Ham.
The 22-year-old striker came on as a late substitute for new signing Joselu against the Hammers on Saturday afternoon, with the score at 1-0. Just a minute later, the Toon were two ahead through Ciaran Clark.
The 27-time Serbia international then went one better by dancing through the West Ham defence before rounding goalkeeper Joe Hart and prodding the ball home, to seal an emphatic 3-0 win over the Hammers.
Former England international Redknapp claimed in his Daily Mail column that Mitrovic can save Newcastle from relegation, but has urged the striker to stamp out his tendency to lash out.
“How do you solve a problem like Aleksandar Mitrovic?,” Redknapp asked. “He is far too good to not be in Newcastle’s team but for every moment of brilliance — such as his goal against West Ham — there is danger that he will get sent off.
“Mitrovic is a battering ram and a brave forward who will score goals. But his stupidity often outweighs his undoubted quality. There are some players who never learn but if Mitrovic gets his head right, he can be the key to Newcastle staying in the Premier League.”
The Daily Mirror claimed in their transfer news blog (Monday, 11.18am) that Mitrovic is interesting a whole host of European sides this summer, with Olympiacos said to be keen.
But after Saturday’s goal, Benitez could look to hand Newcastle’s number 45 one more chance to curb his aggression and fire the Toon towards Premier League safety.
Mitrovic is set to face Moldova and Ireland during the international break after being called up to Serbia’s squad, who currently sit at the top of qualifying in Group D.
OPINION
Mitrovic offers more than Dwight Gayle and Joselu in the final third, with his power and unwavering eye for goal much more effective than his current rivals. However, Redknapp is right that the target man can prove to be more detrimental to the Toon’s success with the chances of him scoring just as likely as receiving a red card. Despite his tender age, the striker has already been sent off five times in his professional career, including twice at Newcastle. Even on Saturday, the striker was guilty of a robust challenge that saw him dig his elbow into Manuel Lanzini’s face, before scoring. Benitez must weigh up the pros and cons of keeping Mitrovic at St. James’ Park, but his goal should be evidence enough that it is worth handing him another chance.