OPINION
Newcastle United midfielder Mikel Merino has become a forgotten figure in the past couple of months, but he should get a lifeline to prove his worth against Liverpool at the weekend.
The Magpies travel to Liverpool on Saturday evening in the Premier League and manager Rafael Benitez has confirmed that mainstay Jonjo Shelvey is unavailable.
Shelvey will miss the league clash as he awaits news on his knee scan and he will leave a big gap in the middle of the park.
He had formed a great understanding alongside Mohamed Diame in recent weeks in the centre of midfield, but his absence opens the door for someone else in the squad.
Benitez must turn to Merino after the injury blow and he can step into the starting XI to make a huge impact.
The 21-year-old endured a brilliant start to his career at St James’ Park after joining in the summer and was an ever-present in the side.
He caught the eye with his range of passing, technical ability and work-rate in front of the back four.
However, a back injury saw the central midfielder drop out of the squad and he has struggled in the past couple of months to force his way back into the side on a regular basis.
Merino should be thrown straight back into the starting XI against Liverpool and can be a like-for-like replacement for Shelvey with his intelligence in possession.
The Spaniard has perhaps been struggling with a hint of confidence and match fitness, but if he can recapture his best form then he will play a huge role in the relegation run-in.
Newcastle are just two points above the drop zone as it stands and will need to put in a very professional performance away to Liverpool if they are to come away with any points in the league.