OPINION
As if it was ever in any doubt, Joselu’s performance in Newcastle United’s friendly draw with CSKA Moscow on Saturday confirmed once and for all that the Spanish striker is simply not good enough to be on the books at a Premier League side.
After coming on at half time for Salomon Rondon, the forward struggled and spluttered his way through a woeful half of football that was perhaps best summed up by his dire, trickling attempt on goal from the edge of the box when it really looked as if he should have made the net bulge.
His ineffectiveness in front of goal has been an issue for some time now, but the Magpies have been fortunate enough to not have to rely on him at any point this season, with Rondon in fine form and injury free.
Coming on for the Venezuelan was arguably the worst thing that Joselu could have done, however, as the difference between the two was blatant, and almost painful, to see.
Whereas Rondon is a bustling, natural finisher, the Spaniard is lacklustre and looks as if his nerves are shot.
It honestly seems as if even Joselu is convinced that he will never score again, and when a player’s confidence is that low, it can be so hard for them to come back from it.
At this stage, the best thing for player and club would surely be for the Toon Army to wash their hands of Joselu completely and look for a replacement in the summer.
