Islam Slimani has been handed a second chance in the Premier League with Newcastle, having struggled a little at Leicester City.
The Algerian international was signed by then champions Leicester for a club-record fee in 2016, but never quite replicated his sparkling form for Sporting CP.
A loan switch to Newcastle could now see Slimani earn himself a permanent switch to St James’ Park, a move elsewhere or even a second chance at Leicester.
But if this transfer is to be a success and Newcastle are to avoid relegation, Slimani simply must perform in games like Sunday’s against Bournemouth.
Rafa Benitez was desperate to bring in a striker due to the Magpies’ continued wastefulness in front of goal – a prime example coming at home to Bournemouth back in November.
Newcastle dominated the Cherries in the first half but failed to find the net and then, still chasing the game, Rafa’s men were caught out on the counter and ended up losing 1-0 in a bitter, bitter blow.
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Slimani is yet to feature in the black and white, but his new team-mates have collected four points in his absence since the transfer window shut.
This fine run must continue at Bournemouth if Newcastle are to avoid a nervy end to the season, so they will be looking to their new front man to hit the ground running.
A fast start and a debut goal would not only give the Magpies a huge boost on Sunday but should also see the confidence come flooding back in these games against teams around them.
It’s going to be a huge day for the striker…