Former Newcastle United striker Mick Quinn says he was “baffled” by Rafa Benitez’s decision to start Joselu against Tottenham, and wants new signing Salomon Rondon to lead the line against Cardiff this weekend.
Spanish striker Joselu was selected up front against Spurs and scored Newcastle’s equaliser after they fell behind early on, but was withdrawn in the second half as the Magpies succumbed to a 2-1 loss.
In a column for the Chronicle, Quinn says he was confused by Benitez deciding to start Joselu, although he admitted that the striker played well regardless.
Quinn said: “When the Newcastle United teamsheet was first released at the weekend, I have to admit I was baffled to see Joselu start up front. That is nothing against the Spaniard, it’s just I was scratching my head wondering why Rafa Benitez did not throw Salomon Rondon straight into the XI.
“As is often the case with Rafa’s left-field selections, however, Joselu took his chance with both arms, and I was really impressed with him during the first half. By the start of the second half though I think he tired, and it was no surprise to me when Rondon came on just before the hour mark.
“Just like Newcastle themselves were desperately unlucky not to claim at least a point, Rondon himself was perhaps unfortunate not to open his United account. I very much expect him to start against Cardiff this weekend though. I would certainly throw him in, even if Joselu played well.”
OPINION
While Benitez would ideally have liked to start Rondon against Tottenham, the fact is that the West Bromwich Albion striker only arrived at the club a few days before, and was not expected to be thrown straight into action. Joselu on the other hand had completed a full pre-season with the squad, and therefore deserved his chance to impress from the off. Benitez’s decision did pay off, with Joselu putting in an accomplished performance up front and getting himself on the scoresheet already – a feat he only managed on five occasions last term. However, as Quinn says, Rondon must now start this weekend against Cardiff. He showed what he can do during his 30-minute cameo against Spurs, and he will be raring to go after getting a full week of training under his belt. His size and power will cause issues for any Premier League defence, and that is especially important against the Bluebirds, who will be throwing themselves into every challenge.
