Now he’s been officially unveiled at St James’ Park, spoken to the media and enjoyed his first few training sessions with the squad, it’s time to have a closer look at record signing Miguel Almiron.
He may have played in the MLS – a league considerably poorer than the Premier League – but the highlight clip below shows his undeniable pace and dribbling skills:
What stands out immediately is that he looks like exactly the type of player, a true number ten, that we have been in dire need of since the days of Ben Arfa. Pace, can pick a pass and has an eye for goal – something that can only compliment Rondon, who has done so well, but is often isolated in our current system.
Benitez likes players with pace to hit teams on the break and Almiron appears to fit the bill perfectly – with him also known for his energy and work off the ball too. He also looks deadly from set pieces too – perhaps another reason he has reportedly been a top target of Rafa for the past 18 months.
We are well organised defensively, with some excellent centre halves, so Almiron is hopefully the spark and creativity we badly lack. Even if he can grab us a few vital goals by the end of the season he will be a hit with Toon fans and a good step towards us staying up.
Do you think Almiron should come straight into the team against Wolves?
Should he come straight in? Let Rafa decide that, he knows better than us how ready he is. I would suggest yes, but I’m dying to see him in the shirt because I’m a fan.
He definitely looks like the player we need, but let’s make sure he’s ready first.
I’m thinking 20 minutes or so towards the end to let him express himself, then he should be ready to start against Huddersfield and Burnley.
Let’s not put too much pressure on the lad. He’s one man, not a team. He can only do so much, but if he can provide the link between the midfield and Rondon, like he looks he can, we should be fine.
Then Ashley needs to do the same in the summer to keep Rafa – give him the players he wants from the money the club generates. Keep your wallpaper, we only want the clubs money to be spent on the club. Not much to ask for is it?
Bobbybee(Quote)
It’s clear for me. This player knows football, he’s gonna make it work.
Jorgen berget(Quote)
He does look great. But then so did Cabella and Thauvin… You never know how things will work out.
Paulos(Quote)