The Newcastle fans in the Transfer Tavern have been reacting to the news (from the Chronicle) that their on-loan striker, Islam Slimani is still a doubt for the Huddersfield game this weekend, meaning his first game for the club may not be until April 15th. The Algerian joined the Magpies on a temporary basis from Leicester City in January and has been unable to play owing to injury.
The Newcastle fans propping our bar up have become increasingly frustrated with the big Algerian target-man as they continue to wait to have a striker that can consistently lead the line in the Premier League. Joselu and Dwight Gayle have played parts in the Magpies’ season but haven’t been able to nail down the starting role in the Northeast. Whilst the club are looking more and more likely to stay up, it will be a kick in the teeth for the fans if they don’t get their money’s worth from Slimani.
Slimani is currently with the Algerian national squad who face Iran today, although the forward will play no part in the fixture. Slimani will be hoping he can be fit for the last few games of the season, although he doesn’t have the World Cup to look forward to as Algeria missed out on a place in Russia. If Slimani can convince manager Rafa Benitez that he’s got what it takes at St James Park then he could force a move permanently after being unable to nail down a spot in the Leicester City starting eleven.
Here’s our local Geordies’ verdict on Slimani:
Doumbia all over again… PANIC PANIC PANIC buy
— Rob Nicholson (@rob_nicka) March 26, 2018
https://twitter.com/ivorberry/status/978607810987679744
https://twitter.com/Toon_KDL/status/978544217592160256
Jesus wept. Slimani is making Siem de Jong look like Iron Man! Get rid #nufc
— Jasper NUFC (@BorderJasper) March 26, 2018
https://twitter.com/El_MagoNUFC/status/978316789904965632
Slimani won’t play for us, he’s made of polystyrene.
— SWAMPYNUFC (@Swampmonster9) 26 March 2018
What a waste of a signing Slimani has been so far. Travelled to Spain for mid-season break but did not play in Antwerp friendly. Leaves for international duty with Algeria, does not feature again and now needs 'rest'. Next available game now the 15th April vs Arsenal. #NUFC pic.twitter.com/1QHs5lc9GU
— ToonArmy (@toonarmy_com) March 26, 2018
https://twitter.com/FromTheTofuBowl/status/978115050454921217
