OPINION
Newcastle United defender Javier Manquillo got a rare start and a huge opportunity to impress against Watford on Saturday, but unfortunately he blew it big time.
The 24-year-old right-back showcased why he has been a fringe man for much of the season, as he demonstrated a lack of defensive know-how in the 2-1 defeat to Watford.
He has been stuck behind DeAndre Yedlin in the battle for the right-back position and with the club’s Premier League status secured, manager Rafael Benitez opted to make changes to his starting XI.
However, Manquillo was terrorised when he had his back to goal and the full-back looks extremely vulnerable when in one-on-one scenarios with a winger.
The Spaniard did provide an assist to his credit and attacked well at times, but the basics of his defending are just missing.
Benitez will surely be drawing up plans for his squad next season and based on the weekend he should consider upgrading Manquillo.
The full-back got his run in the side in the early stages of the campaign and has managed 23 appearances across all competitions.
He has shown he struggles at top-flight football and finding a new competitor to rival Yedlin at right-back makes far much more sense for the squad.
Newcastle’s aim has to be establishing themselves back in the Premier League and looking up the table rather than down has to be a long-term aim.
They have all the foundations at St James’ Park to really move forward under Benitez if he is fully backed and getting rid of average players such as Manquillo should be a starting point in the summer.