According to the Chronicle’s Mark Douglas, Aleksandar Mitrovic would actually be keen to remain at Newcastle United IF Benitez handed him more opportunities – revealing that the striker has remained in touch with Rafa since his loan move to Fulham.
The NUFC editor admits that it would be ‘one hell of a U-turn’ to see Mitrovic back playing in a black and white shirt next season (suggesting we’re still likely to cash in), however he insists that Rafa’s decision to not play him was never anything personal – and more down to our playing style at the time.
The story claims that Rafa saw him as a ‘luxury’ in a Newcastle side that faced large periods of games without the ball (hence the decision to loan him out), but it’s now claimed that he *might* just be given another shot if Rafa’s unable to find a superior replacement this summer.
Here’s what Mark Douglas has had to say about the striker’s future following his stunning hat-trick for Serbia over the weekend:
“Mitrovic says that he would be open to move to Fulham but it’s also understood that he has not shut the door on a return to Newcastle IF Benitez was to give him more opportunities.
“The striker has remained respectful and has even spoken to Benitez and Newcastle at the end of his season with Fulham – with Benitez sending personal congratulations to the forward on winning promotion with the Cottagers.
“It would be one hell of a U-turn but Benitez has always said that there was nothing personal about his decision not to play Mitrovic. If he thinks it would work for Newcastle, he would be happy to shelve his ego and work with Mitrovic again. The striker’s 18 goals last season and continued improvement internationally will be giving him food for thought – as well as pushing his value up.
“There is always the possibility that Benitez will not get anyone of the required calibre to lead the line and then what?
“Mitrovic is worth more than any other Newcastle striker and if he returns in pre-season with Benitez prepared to play him, there won’t be too many Newcastle fans feeling upset.”
What do you make of this folks?
It still sounds like Rafa prefers to cash in and sign a striker of his choice, but his recent form is bound to have caught the eye – meaning he could yet stay if we A) don’t receive a big enough offer or B) fail to land a superior replacement.
Sell joselu , Gayle, keep Armstrong and mitrovich and give them both a run in the team together
Jack(Quote)
Gayle and Joselu have both proven to be ineffective premier league strikers.
Mitro’s stock has I reckon he could have a great return to the Premier League next season. Both of them with Arma In reserve might be what we have to rely on… if the Fatman doesn’t get this cheque book out this summer!
IRWT HTL
Gaz Champion(Quote)