Steve Bruce has heaped praise on Miguel Almiron today, revealing how he’s never seen anyone cover the ground or play with the ‘intensity’ he does in his 20 years in football.
The Paraguayan is still yet to open his account in a blakc and white shirt, despite scoring TWO in his last three at international level, but Bruce is adamant the ‘multi-talented’ winger will break his duck soon.
Here’s what the NUFC boss has had to say about his “incredible running stats” ahead of next Monday’s trip to Aston Villa:
“I’ve never seen anyone in 20 years cover the distance or play with the intensity that he does.
“His running stats are incredible – as big as I’ve seen for any player.
“He’s multi-talented, I’m confident it’ll happen for him.”
“He’s got two in three in internationals. It’ll happen.”
Those we continue to believe he’s nothing but a ‘headless chicken’ may comment saying ‘yes, but he’s yet to score or make an assist’, however he’s been showing real signs of improvement recently.
Almiron’s energy and enthusiasm is second to none, with Bruce’s comments highlighting just how much he offers OFF the ball, but the 25-year-old was a constant threat against West Ham and Bournemouth in recent weeks, using the ball well, creating openings with his electric pace and drawing fouls in key areas.
That aside, what happened to “we demand a team that tries, not a team that wins”. Yes, we need more from a £16m attacker, but surely we can apply this famous motto to Almiron? After all, Gutierrez goal and assist record was poor, but he was a VERY useful player in his prime.
I’m a firm believer that we’ll see a new improved Miguel Almiron once he gets that first goal – even if he may never be the most natural finisher in the world.
Confidence plays a huge part in football – especially for an inexperienced player in a new league – and he’s getting that back gradually.
Let’s get behind him!
