Speaking to Lee Ryder in an interview with the Chronicle, Nantes midfielder and former Toon Army man Mehdi Abeid is currently enjoying life in Ligue 1, currently focused on ‘reaching the Champions League’ with the French outfit – with his form perhaps making some Newcastle fans come to the conclusion that they shouldn’t have sold him in 2015.
Former Newcastle boss Rafa Benitez eventually took the decision to move the midfielder on after a spell on the fringes of the team, even despite the fact he impressed when given the chance – particularly putting in a great shift during the Magpies’ 1-0 win over Liverpool back in 2014/2015.
Now, Abeid is one of Nantes’ most crucial assets, amassing an 86.8% pass success rate and notching two assists from midfield this campaign, as per WhoScored.com. Compared to current Magpies midfielders Jonjo Shelvey and Isaac Hayden, Abeid’s range of passing seems far more superior – with both Englishmen garnering a meagre 73.6% and 78.4% respectively in that department.
As a result, some Newcastle fans have slammed the club for letting him go, here’s what they had to say on Twitter.
Killed by Carver the Charver hanging him out to dry tbh. He’d be no better off under the Bruceosaurus though #NUFC #ashleyout #bruceout
— Ian (@ian_riches) January 9, 2020
I thought he was promising.
— Rum Razor Barbershop (@Rumrazorbarbers) January 9, 2020
A really promising player – would love to see him return. Just the sort of defensive midfielder every team needs.
— Allon (@Allon89897180) January 9, 2020
I liked him and Mbabu too. Dunno why we sold them. Should’ve been patient and loaned them for longer.
— Jay Ashun (@JKOversion1) January 9, 2020
Always wanted him too stay
— 🅰️iden O’K 🉐️ (@A1dypercent) January 9, 2020
Never got a chance did he really.
— Jon (@NUFCAnon) January 9, 2020
Newcastle fans, would you like to see the return of Abeid? Join the discussion by commenting below…
