Newcastle striker Salomon Rondon scored twice for Venezuela in a 2-0 victory over Panama.
That makes it three goals in four games for Rondon, who also scored in the Magpies’ Carabao Cup exit.
He drew blanks against Manchester City and Colombia, but it’s good to see him back on the goal trail at least.
Can Rondon be the goalscorer Newcastle need?
Rondon has been criticised in the past for not scoring enough goals, which is why some Newcastle fans weren’t convinced by his signing.
The 28-year-old scored just 24 Premier League goals in more than 100 appearances for West Brom.
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Then again, Rondon was mainly playing in a defensive team, where his attacking talents were stifled. So why should things be any different at Newcastle, another defensive side?
Well we’ve already seen strong signs from Rondon, who looks perfectly suited to the defensive striker role desired by Rafa Benitez.
Newcastle might have been defensive so far this season, but they are capable of creating chances. If the likes of Jonjo Shelvey and Kenedy can create those chances for Rondon, it’s up to the big man to put them away.
Thankfully, he now has three goals this season for club and country. That means the confidence should be flowing through his veins.
Arsenal are next up for the Magpies, where Rondon will get another chance to bully Premier League defenders. With goals under his belt already this season, Rondon should not be weighed down by the iconic number nine shirt.
