BBC pundit says that £21m Newcastle man was the ‘big difference’ in win against Sunderland

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BBC pundit Nedum Onuoha has heaped praise on one Newcastle United player who he thought made the difference in a big win against Sunderland.

Miguel Almiron looked to be on top form in the first Tyne-Wear derby since 2016 as he played a huge part in the second goal and was energetic throughout the full 90 minutes.

On Match of the Day, former Sunderland man Onuoha was full of praise for the Paraguayan who he claimed was the difference maker in the game and predicted him to have a big second half of the season.

Onuoha says Almiron’s energy was key for Newcastle

If there’s one thing Almiron has never lacked regardless of what form he’s in, that’s an abundance of energy and willingness to run himself into the ground for Eddie Howe.

Rarely has his desire been questioned by Newcastle fans, but it has been his efforts in the final third that have been underwhelming and caused himself to come under criticism from his own supporters.

Against Sunderland, however, the Newcastle man looked very sharp and played his usual high-pressing game which resulted in winning the ball before squaring to Alexander Isak for the second goal.

Howe was overjoyed with the efforts that Almiron gave him and now Onuoha has suggested that the £21m winger can recapture his brilliant form from last year in the second half of this season.

On the show, Onuoha said: “To give Almiron credit, I thought in the game his energy was there, pressing running with and without the ball and he made a big difference.

“I think if they are to find their way again this season, I think he can be a big part of that in getting back to where he was last year.”

Newcastle still looking to replace Almiron

Despite his hard-working attitude, Newcastle are known to be looking for a replacement for Almiron, perhaps not in the January window but more likely in the summer.

To be a top class team challenging for trophies and a top four place every season, Newcastle need to add strength in depth and they certainly need a more threatening right-winger with an improved goal record.

Almiron actually grabbed a rare assist for Isak’s first goal, but the 29-year-old has only recorded six assists in 164 appearances in the Premier League, just simply not good enough for a team who qualified for the Champions League last year.

Buying a new winger with a much better record in front of goal may just be the upgrade Newcastle need to take things to that next level and compete with the very best.