Newcastle midfielder Issac Hayden has admitted he has not been good enough this season and knows he must improve in order to prove himself to both the fans and manager Rafael Benitez.
While Hayden had started all six of Newcastle’s opening Premier League fixtures, he was replaced by the returning Jonjo Shelvey against Liverpool last weekend, who enjoyed a fine game in the middle of park alongside the newly signed Mikel Merino.
The Englishman, who signed from Arsenal on a permanent deal in the summer of 2016, enjoyed a terrific first season with the Magpies but has since struggled for form in the top flight, however has been open for his criticism of himself as well as his desire to improve.
“I’m realistic about these things and I don’t think I was harsh on myself,” Hayden said.
“I just believe I’m an honest person and if I have a good game I feel I can say I’ve had a good game, and if I’ve had a bad game I feel I can say I’ve had a bad game. I’m not afraid to admit things or take things on the chin.
“It’s something that I felt and I spoke to the manager about it, watched clips back, etc., etc., but it’s about becoming the best player you can be.”
