‘Key to Newcastle’s survival’ - Newcastle United fans celebrate lynchpin on Twitter

The Toon Army were pleased to see their side put an end to their run of defeats with a 2-2 draw away at West Brom last night.

Rafa Benitez’s side had to dig deep and show character to come away from the Hawthorns with a point last night after they found themselves two goals down just over half an hour left to play. In the 59th minute, Ciaran Clark rose highest at the back post to thump a Matt Ritchie corner and half the deficit, before Jonny Evans inadvertently turned the ball into his own net from Richie’s free-kick with just 7 minutes left to play.

Newcastle’s trip to the Midlands marked Mikel Merino’s return to the starting eleven following a back injury that ruled him out of contention since the club’s most recent victory against Crystal Palace in October.

Much has been made of the Spaniard’s return by the Newcastle faithful on Twitter who believe his performances will be paramount to their club’s success this season.

There is certainly statistical evidence to suggest that Benitez’s side are better off with Merino operating in their midfield to back up the supporters claims.

Newcastle with Mikel Merino starting in the Premier League this season

points per game

Newcastle without Mikel Merino starting in the Premier League this season

points per game

Full player stats https://t.co/FvJWbkDted pic.twitter.com/iQ6TLr69tO

— WhoScored.com (@WhoScored) November 29, 2017

And The Magpies will certainly be hoping Merino can stay fit for the rest of the season and enable Newcastle to cement their status in the English top-flight this season.

Here’s what the fans had to say about Merino’s return…

https://twitter.com/FalseFirmino/status/935815917996519425

https://twitter.com/JCross91/status/935645261581479941

The crowd, including myself, was buzzing for Mitro, but a particular highlight tonight was @mikelmerino1 back running the show #nufc

— Natasha (@NatashaNUFC) November 28, 2017

Not sure it's been said on twitter yet, but Mitrovic needs to start.

And shelvey and @mikelmerino1 need a run as our centre midfield partnership. #NUFC

— ⚽ Liam 🏃‍♂️ Drake 🏈 (@liamdnufc) November 28, 2017

https://twitter.com/FordeHaveMercy/status/935617673425227777