Newcastle United must play Miguel Almiron more centrally to get the best out of him, according to journalist Felipe Cardenas.
The Atheltic journalist followed the Magpies’ forward during his time at Atlanta and insisted that Steve Bruce must utilise the playmakers’ skill to isolate defenders in the final third.
Cardenas admitted that Almiron was given much more freedom during his time in America and that he excelled when given the right to roam around the pitch when in attack.
Speaking to the Chronicle, Cardenas opened up on how Newcastle could best use the 25-year-old, who was involved in 24 goals in his final season in the MLS.
“Tata Martino gave him a lot more freedom to roam in the midfield, and if he ever found himself on the right side it’s because the attack happened to build from that side or he had found space there,” he said.
“His best position is playing central; playing in a free role, centrally in between lines.
“He has the ability to play all over the midfield but he’s a creator and a playmaker – his speed continues to be his strongest asset.”
“In order to take advantage of that, he needs to be in a position where he can isolate a defender.”
The Paraguayan international has yet to be involved in a single goal for the Magpies despite joining almost a year ago in January 2019.
OPINION
Almiron has endured a nightmare start to life at St James’ Park after joining from Atlanta. The Paraguayan would have been expected to come in and find the back of the net, or at least deliver assists for his teammates. The 25-year-old has struggled immensely and as the weeks go on, he doesn’t seem to be improving in the final third for the Magpies. The playmaker could have been excused if he had just joined the club, but Almiron has now been in the North East for long enough to start making an impact and he simply hasn’t done that. No matter where he plays, his fortunes don’t seem to be changing, and Bruce has given him every opportunity by playing him as a winger, a striker, and a central playmaker – none of which brought different results. Almiron will need to start delivering soon, or his place in the Magpies’ side will soon come under scrutiny.
