Newcastle winger Yoan Gouffran has explained how a conversation with manager Rafa Benitez, and a determination to work hard on the training pitch got him back into the first team picture.
The Frenchman played just nine times last season, and was poised to leave the club before the start of the campaign with a year remaining on his current deal. Rather than leaving though, he knuckled down on the training ground, and worked his way back into Rafa’s plans. He told the club’s official website:
“I have been involved, I think I have deserved it. It was really hard for me, and I’ve worked really hard at the training ground. I spoke with the manager when he came and I was injured last season, and now, I am happy. I will enjoy my holidays!”
The 30 year old has managed to play 45 times this season in all competitions, scoring seven goals. His future at the club is uncertain though with his contract expiring at the end of June.
Before the club’s final match of the season, Benitez said that both Gouffran and Vurnon Anita’s contracts will have to wait until after he has had talks with club owner Mike Ashley about the club’s budget for next season.
