Newcastle United continued their preparations for the upcoming Premier League campaign with a friendly in Portugal on Tuesday evening, with journalist Jordan Cronin left impressed by Miguel Almiron’s two-goal display.
Eddie Howe’s side fell to defeat in Lisbon, losing 3-2 to Primeira Liga giants Benfica, with Henrique Araujo scoring the winner in the 89th minute for the home side.
The Magpies had to come from behind twice in the first half, with Goncalo Ramos and Alex Grimaldo nudging the Eagles in front, but on each occasion, Almiron was the man to restore parity.
Howe made 10 changes at half-time, including taking off the goalscorer, and after being reduced to 10 men in the closing stages as Joelinton received a second yellow, the Toon suffered defeat late on.
However, Almiron’s contribution in the first period didn’t go unnoticed, with Cronin heralding his performance despite a last-minute alteration before the game.
Writing for Newcastle World, he gave the Paraguayan a 9/10 rating and made the following comment: “What a pre-season this man is having. Almiron was a late replacement for Jacob Murphy in the starting XI, which makes his two goals perhaps even more impressive.”
TIF Thoughts on Almiron and Newcastle…
Is Almiron good enough for NUFC?
Yes
No
With the Toon still interested in bringing in a winger this summer (GiveMeSport), Almiron’s place in the side could well be in jeopardy, but he is certainly playing like a man with his future on the line.
The 28-year-old played 18 times on the right wing for the north-east club last season and made 30 appearances in total, but his attacking outlay left a lot to be desired, with a return of just one goal and zero assists.
In fact, he has only managed 14 goals and a further five assists in 123 outings for the St James’ Park outfit and will be hoping his impressive pre-season form carries into the forthcoming campaign in order to stand a fighting chance of competing for a place.