Eddie Howe gives Miguel Almiron verdict amid Newcastle United exit talk

Eddie Howe has backed Miguel Almiron to grasp his opportunity at Newcastle United - should he replace Ryan Fraser in the starting XI.

The Paraguayan was introduced in place of Fraser against Wolverhampton Wanderers, who limped off after just 13 minutes with a hamstring problem.

Howe revealed Fraser’s injury was not as bad as first thought following a scan but is understood to be a doubt for Sunday’s clash with Leicester City.

That will likely see Almiron retain his spot on the right-wing, which would be only his sixth start since Howe arrived as head coach in November.

“That’s been no way a reflection of Miggy,” Howe said, when asked about Almiron’s lack of starts. “It’s probably been a reflection of Ryan and Maxi (Allan Saint-Maximin), who have done very well in the wide areas.

“Miggy is a player we really like, he’s got a very infectious attitude. He works extremely hard and I thought he did really well when he came on against Wolves, he gave us a different dimension. He ran in behind and pressed very well.

“I’d love Miggy to go on a very successful run and do really well. He’s trained very well behind the scenes, his attitude has been excellent from day one since we came. I’m hopeful, if there is an opportunity for him, he can really grasp it.”

Big period coming up for Miguel Almiron

The way the next few months play out could decide Almiron’s future at Newcastle United. Indeed, the 28-year-old has struggled for gametime under Howe with Fraser and Allan Saint-Maximin preferred.

Certainly, no Newcastle fan can doubt Almiron’s workrate and energy but when it comes to quality, they’ve only witnessed glimpses since his £20million switch from Atlanta United in January 2019.

The Magpies will need to sell players to make way for new additions this summer and Almiron has been identified by supporters as someone who could be sold for a decent size fee.

By the way, his agent Daniel Campos hasn’t helped his cause - constantly speaking about Almiron being wanted by clubs across Europe.

Simply, it’s up to the Paraguayan to prove he deserves - and wants -a long-term future on Tyneside.