Newcastle United striker Aleksandar Mitrovic continues to cause controversy as the 22-year old has been accused of simulation during Serbia’s 1-0 victory over the Republic of Ireland on Tuesday night.
Aleksandar Mitrovic’s potential is, on occasion, there for all to see, but it is his attitude and temperament that has so often left a lot to be desired.
Mitrovic illustrated his qualities and flaws during Newcastle United’s 3-0 victory over West Ham United a fortnight ago. He grabbed a well taken goal but, in typical Mitrovic fashion, earned himself a retrospective three match ban after a cynical elbow on Manuel Lanzini.
Following the ban, it seemed like the 22-year-old would be benefitted by the international break – being away from the constant scrutiny of the English media – and he made headlines for the right reasons after scoring in Serbia’s 3-0 victory over Moldova.
The Serbian has now attracted some negative attention once again during the clash against the Republic of Ireland on Tuesday night after seemingly diving to get an opponent into the referee’s book.
The ex-Anderlecht man went down dramatically following what appeared to be minimal contact from Ireland’s Robbie Brady and the incident earned the Irishman a yellow card – meaning that he will be banned for the next round of World Cup qualifiers.
This dive from Mitrovic, which got Brady a card and a ban, is an absolute belter pic.twitter.com/XSHGHPfiKK
— Daniel Harris (@DanielHarris) September 5, 2017
Mitrovic’s willingness to win at all cost is admirable, but simulation has no place in football and the young man needs to weed out such antics from his game in order for people to solely focus on his footballing talent.