Newcastle United fans are keen to see Spanish midfielder Mikel Merino stay at St James’ Park for next season despite the player casting his own future into doubt.
During an interview on Spanish radio station Marca Navarra which was translated via the Newcastle Chronicle, the 21-year-old admitted that “what happens will happen” regarding his future – hardly a cast-iron response on where he will be for the coming campaign.
Merino only signed from Borussia Dortmund last summer on loan before joining permanently in a deal worth £8million and was a success from the off.
However, a back injury which coincided with an upturn in form from Mo Diame left him getting bits of action rather than the full 90 minutes he was enjoying at the start of the season.
It would appear that the player is unhappy with his lack of game-time under Rafa Benitez and could be on the look-out for other options
But fans of Newcastle are all in a general agreement that they need to keep the Spanish U21 international and see him as one for the future.
One fan stated that the club would be making a “big mistake” if the talented midfielder is allowed to leave the club.
Here is a selection of responses on social media from Magpies fans in reaction to the player’s comments:
he's still young with a lot to learn. He'll get the game time but he needs to be patient with Rafa the master
— john t graham (@toonjohnnyg) May 26, 2018
If we want to progress, we need players like Merino to stay. There’s a top draw player in him, Rafa just needs to get it out which I’m sure he can.
— Tommy Strong (@strong_te) May 26, 2018
I'd like to see him look interested, get fitter and get back playing yes
— Dayle (@Bazro136) May 26, 2018
https://twitter.com/GAZHOLL14/status/1000320612961849345
https://twitter.com/Idahopotatoes/status/1000331712625291265
Yes please ??
— Gareth Thompson (@GarfThompson) May 26, 2018
He’s twenty one bags of potential. Rafa will hopefully give him more game time next season. I think he’s class.
— rob bardgett (@BardgetRob) May 26, 2018