‘What could have been’ - Newcastle United supporters left stunned by former player’s Euro 2024 cameo
Former Newcastle United forward Ayoze Perez enjoyed an electric 12-minute cameo for Spain in their 1-0 win over Italy
Newcastle United supporters were left stunned by Ayoze Perez’s eventful showing for Spain during their 1-0 win over Italy.
The forward came on for the final 12 minutes - making only his second appearance for the national team. His debut against Andorra a fortnight ago saw him bag a goal and an assist in a resounding 5-0 victory.
Luis de la Fuente’s men have been one of Euro 2024’s most eye-catching teams so far. Spain kicked their campaign off with a 3-0 win against Croatia before dominating Italy last night - just hours after England’s dismal 1-1 draw with Denmark.
Perez - who scored the most goals of the Mike Ashley era - was a bright spark during the closing stages as he helped Spain see out all three points. The former Newcastle man twice came close to scoring, with his pace and trickery on the left flank causing Italy problems.
Toon fans could not help but joke about the 30-year-old’s transformation in recent years. While Perez enjoyed memorable moments on Tyneside, he did, at times, attract criticism for inconsistency.
One fan wrote: “Where was this Ayoze Perez a few seasons ago? Seriously looks like a different player to the one that left the Toon.”
Another had flashbacks from the forward’s five-year spell at St James’ Park. The post-read: “Ayoze Perez doing something good then messing up the finish? Comfortingly nostalgic.”
There were also reminiscent Newcastle fans once Mikel Merino came on with minutes to spare. Rafa Benitez signed the midfielder, who left just 12 months later before becoming a Champions League regular for Real Sociedad.
“A team of Mikel Merino, Ayoze Perez and Joselu have reached the last 16 of the Euros,” the social media comment read. “Oh, what could have been at Newcastle.”