Resurgent Newcastle star Mohamed Diame is determined to retain his place as Rafa Benitez’s midfield general for the rest of the season.
Diame has executed a stunning turnaround in form over the past two months and has become a steadying presence in the United engine room alongside the creative talents of Mikel Merino or Jonjo Shelvey.
It was Diame and Shelvey who ran the show during the 1-0 win over Manchester United at St James’ Park earlier this month and the 30-year-old, who retired from international football with Senegal last year to concentrate on his club career.
And after initially struggling for form ever since his £4.5 million move from Hull City last season, Diame feels his hard work in training is finally bearing fruit on the pitch.
“As I’ve said before, it wasn’t easy for me, but I kept working, and I feel better every game,” he explained to the Shields Gazzette.
“Hopefully, I can be a regular for the rest of the season and give a good performance.
“You need to work hard in training and make it a difficult choice for the manager as to who makes his starting XI.”
Diame is likely to partner Shelvey again the heart of Newcastle’s midfield for the trip to Bournemouth on Saturday.
