Mikel Merino is confident of being available for selection as Tottenham Hotspur travel up to St. James’ Park to kick off the Premier League campaign on August 13th.
The summer signing, who has impressed during the Magpies’ pre-season schedule, had been granted an extended holiday after his participation in the U21 European Championships with Spain.
Signed on loan from Borussia Dortmund, the 21-year-old has told the Chronicle he’s been putting in extra hours in order to ensure he’s up on his match fitness.
“Yeah, I have been working by myself and when we had a day off I went running”, he said.
“I prepare myself anyway.
“I had more days of vacation due to the European Championships and I have not played too many minutes.
Able to operate in either central midfield or back in defence, he will presumably play alongside Jonjo Shelvey in the 4-2-3-1 system largely deployed by Rafa Benitez during his tenure on Tyneside.
Merino particularly impressed in the recent 3-1 win over Wolfsburg, thrilling fans with THAT pass (as seen below) and their chances of making a strong start to life back in the top tier will be boosted by his presence.
Merino impressive since coming on. Some impeccably timed tackles, clever positioning & this superb pass
