He has often been criticised by sections of the Newcastle United fanbase this season but on Friday night Ayoze Perez proved why he is such a valuable asset for Rafa Benitez and that he, in fact, has a massive opportunity to become a Newcastle great in the future.
Benitez’s men all but secured their safety from relegation after causing an upset at the King Power Stadium with a 1-0 victory over Leicester City thanks to a goal by Perez. Indeed, the Spaniard did well in beating Leicester City captain Wes Morgan and pounced on an excellent delivery by Matt Ritchie, heading the ball across the goal into the back of the net in the 32nd minute.
Perez’s recent form should really excite Newcastle supporters about what he can offer the club in the future if he continues to grow and improve under Benitez. Friday evening’s goal was his third in six matches for the Tyneside club and he looks to be playing with a lot of confidence down on the right wing at the moment.
Perez, who is valued at £9 million (by Transfermarkt), has made massive strides in his time at St. James’ Park and has developed a more competitive nature from playing in the Premier League. Yes, there are frustrations about how long he hangs onto the ball at times, but he’s looking so much more effective these days.
The fact that Newcastle will almost definitely play in the top flight again next season should give him the calmness and freedom to improve his game even more and show the rest of the league just exactly what he is capable of.
With the right mentality, Perez could develop into a big name at the club and could become a feared attacker for opposition teams if he keeps on popping into the right spaces and continues to work hard on his movement during games. Not far off becoming one of the club’s all-time top goalscorers in Premier League competition, it’s time he’s taken seriously.
Newcastle fans, is Ayoze Perez one of the best players in the Mike Ashley era? The bar isn’t high, granted, but what are your thoughts on him? Join the discussion by commenting below…
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