It was a busy period in January for Newcastle United, as Rafael Benitez rejuvenated his squad in the market with a number of pieces of movement- which included some departures.
One of the most high profile exits was the move taking Serbian striker Aleksander Mitrovic away from the club on Deadline Day, with the 23-year-old joining Championship promotion hopefuls Fulham until the end of the season.
That exit allowed Newcastle to bring in their own striker on-loan, landing Islam Slimani from Leicester City, but many have questioned what it means for Mitrovic in the long-term, especially in a World Cup year.
Despite his frustration due to a lack of playing time this season, Mitrovic harbours now hard feelings towards his parent side and told The Times he hopes the Magpies remain in the Premier League- whilst adding he has nothing but respect for owner Mike Ashley.
“For me Newcastle is such a big club and he [Benítez] knows it as well. It has an amazing stadium and fans, it deserves to be in a much better position than it is now. Benítez saw the big potential of this club. I hope they stay in the Premier League, they deserve this.”
“I never met Mike Ashley, he was my boss and I have to respect him. I will say Newcastle has a big history and I hope the club will be where it should be.”
Mitrovic will return to Newcastle this summer but his stay may only be short-term, as a permanent exit could be sanctioned.
