Newcastle United have been issued a huge boost from Spanish midfielder Mikel Merino, who outlined his ambitions and stated that he hopes to achieve them whilst representing the Magpies.
Merino arrived from Borussia Dortmund last summer on-loan but swiftly made a switch to Tyneside permanent, though interest from his homeland was present in January as Athletic Bilbao were said to be keen on the Basque-born talent.
However, Merino believes he can reach his dream of representing Spain and playing at a World Cup whilst in Newcastle colours and has played down the chances of an exit when speaking to Chronicle Live, as he said:
“The dream is to play in a World Cup or the Euros with Spain. That’s the dream for anybody in the Under-21s or Under-18s or the categories below. It’s the dream and the hope for me too. And I hope one day I am the one to be there.”
“I know it’s going to be really difficult because it’s only the best of the best get there in the Spanish national team because it’s one of the best teams in the world. I hope that one day that if things go well and I am at the right level I will be there.”
“It would be great if that Spanish cap comes when I am a Newcastle United player. I know I am at a great club and Newcastle is a great place too. This is a great scenario to show everybody what I can do. If I am able to play for Newcastle and Spain at senior level that will be great.”
Merino is on duty for the Spanish U21 side again during the international break, with whom he currently has ten caps and three goals.
