Newcastle left back Massadio Haidara says he is frustrated about his lack of first team opportunities at St James’ Park.
The Frenchman returned to first team training at the start of the New Year after being sidelined with a long term knee injury, but has been given very little game time by manager Rafa Benitez.
Speaking to the Shields Gazette, Haidara said he is trying to use his frustration in a positive way:
“Mentally it can be hard. I am frustrated. Every player would be the same. I am a little bit disappointed with this season because every player wants to play in the first-team. When you are not frustrated at not playing there must be something wrong. But you have to make sure you use your frustration in a good way. It needs to make you want to show more.”
The 24 year old has featured just twice for the Magpies this season, playing in the FA Cup ties against Birmingham City and Oxford United. He has however only made the bench for a league match once, against Rotherham United in January, and has had to settle for games in Peter Beardsley’s Under 23 side.
With Paul Dummett and Achraf Lazaar ahead of him for first team duties, it is unlikely Haidara will be selected by Benitez unless there is an injury crisis, and it looks almost certain he will be allowed to leave Tyneside in the summer.
