OPINION
We all know the score when it comes to the performances of Newcastle United’s wingers this season – namely that they have not performed anywhere near the expected level.
Rafael Benitez has tried every possible formation and combination of wide men to try and get some production at the position, but it’s just not happened this campaign.
Perhaps, then, the Spaniard should consider swooping for the suddenly-available Yannick Bolasie. Aston Villa announced on their official website on Monday that the 29-year-old had triggered an option in his loan contract to return to parent club Everton this month.
However, the Liverpool Echo claim that the former Crystal Palace man doesn’t feature in Toffees boss Marco Silva’s plans, so unless he has another move lined up it would seem that the player is in limbo at the moment.
That’s where Newcastle come in. They’ve been crying out for help in wide areas and Bolasie is a proven Premier League performer. Whether it’s a loan deal or if Benitez can convince Mike Ashley to get his chequebook out, Bolasie needs to make the switch to St James’ Park.
A loan move for the player would mean terminating Kennedy’s temporary spell at the club, but there likely will not be too many people on Tyneside upset over that thought.
Kenedy has had his chance – Bolasie is what the Magpies need. Remember how good he was for Palace? He was a menace, flying down the left flank and bamboozling defenders seemingly at will.
It hasn’t worked out for him at Everton, nor quite at Villa, but there have been extenuating circumstances in both situations. You don’t become a bad player overnight, and the DR Congo international is certainly still capable of contributing for a side like Newcastle.
This could be the lucky break that Benitez’s team need. A top class player in a position of need who has suddenly become available again. They must not hesitate to bring him in.
