Charlie Nicholas has praised Salomon Rondon for his contribution to Rafa Benitez’s Newcastle United side, suggesting that the Venezuelan looks “much fitter” than he has done previously.
The striker starred again in the Magpies’ 1-0 win over Leicester City on Friday evening, and came close to breaking the deadlock with a sublime long range free kick that cannoned back off the bar.
Speaking on Soccer Saturday, (Sky Sports News, April 13th, 12.15pm) Nicholas was eager to talk him up.
He said: “I just feel that they need his presence and the style of play that he has. Almiron’s signing was a little bit more positive, and they’ll be thinking ‘we’ve got a front three now’, and that’s how it has worked.
“Rondon is the key to that.
“When I watched him at West Brom he always looked a handful, but he looks much fitter under Rafa, got him lean, got him ready.”
OPINION
Rondon has been a revelation for Newcastle United this season, and they have to break the bank to keep hold of him next time around. The Venezuelan has been central to everything good about the Magpies this campaign. When they were struggling at the start of the season, he was the shining light, and now that things are looking a bit brighter, he continues to excel. Not only does he score the goals when it matters most, but he also facilitates those around him to play at their highest level as well. He is, without a doubt, the best centre forward that the Toon Army have had in an age, and the Geordies would surely riot if he was allowed to walk away. The main complication that could arise would be if West Brom go up and his price sky rockets, but realistically, that’s going to be touch and go, and hopes will be his of making his move permanent.
