OPINION
It is certainly no understatement to say that Newcastle United midfielder Mo Diame has struggle for most of this season.
The strapping Senegal international looks a complete shadow of the player that shone for the Magpies last season in their tenth place charge, however, Rafa Benitez seems to continue to put his faith in the 31-year-old time after time, and to be honest, it is really rather baffling.
Usually when a player underperforms time and time again, their future will start to look very bleak – but that does not seem to be the case with Diame.
Yes, admittedly he has had a few good games this season, but on the whole, he has been incredibly poor and lacks the type of effort needed this term.
Newcastle are at risk of being dragged into the relegation fight once again, and the majority of managers in Benitez’ shoes would have taken action by now and axed the player in question.
However, the Spaniard obviously does not feel the same way, and he no doubt believes that because Diame has been an integral member of the team previously, he is suddenly going to come good again.
Right now, Benitez is proving to be an obstacle in the way of United getting their season back on track if he continues to place his faith in the £45,000-a-week [Spotrac] player.
Until the manager recognises that Diame is not putting in the effort anymore, the faster Newcastle can steer themselves clear of the dreaded drop.
Diame has been given more than enough chances to prove his worth in this campaign but the signs show that it is just not clicking for him anymore, which mean Benitez would be barking mad to trust him as much as he has done previously.
Time for action, Benitez.