OPINION
While Newcastle United boss Rafael Benitez has a small squad at his disposal it has not stopped him from leaving a number of players on the outskirts of the first team – not least winger Rolando Aarons.
One of the highest rated young talents to come through the Magpies system in recent years, the forward was deemed surplus to requirements by the Spanish boss and was sent out on a short term loan to Slovan Liberec in the first half of the current campaign.
He might not have been what Benitez was looking for but the winger’s cousin – Norwich City’s Max Aarons – ticks a lot of boxes for the St James’ Park outfit.
The 18-year-old full back has established himself as a first choice options for the Canaries – who are flying high in second place in the Championship – with 19 appearances garnering three goals and three assists.
Most importantly, he is a versatile option at the back, operating naturally as a right back but is as comfortable on the left hand side – an area which has been a real headache for Benitez this season.
When Paul Dummett has been out of action the Spanish boss has been forced to adopt a number of makeshift options, with the likes of Kenedy and Matt Ritchie filling in from their natural winger roles.
DeAndre Yedlin has been the first choice on the right hand side but with his absence it has been down to Javier Manquillo to take his spot – the Spaniard failing to impress as much as his American counterpart.
Having someone who fills not one but two positions which has been causing the Magpies problems kills two birds with one stone and in Aarons – Max, not Rolando – Benitez could have someone who is a capable backup option while offering future potential too.