Eddie Howe made a lovely gesture to Miguel Almiron after Newcastle United’s victory over Southampton on Saturday with the midfielder’s future at the club up in the air.
Newcastle United got back to winning ways on Saturday as they managed to cruise past bottom-side Southampton despite an early scare.
Jan Bednarek headed the hosts in front after 10 minutes as the hangover from last weekend’s defeat at Bournemouth briefly threatened to derail Newcastle.
However, Eddie Howe’s side responded positively and turned things around in short order with Alexander Isak bagging a brace.
The scoring was rounded off just after the break when the fantastic Sandro Tonali finished off a move he created with a confident finish.
There were jubilant scenes as the players celebrated with the travelling fans at full-time, though, there was some sadness, too, as Miguel Almiron appeared to wave goodbye to the club.
Miguel Almiron appears to say goodbye to Newcastle
It’s looking likely that Almiron will leave Newcastle in January, with former club Atlanta United keen to bring the playmaker back to America.
Almiron was brought on with a few minutes remaining and earned a rousing reception from supporters, who cheered his every touch, sang his name and nearly exploded when he went close to scoring.
As the players approached the away end after the game, Howe made a point of pushing Almiron in front of the rest of the squad to be showered in adoration from the fans, for what looked like the final time.
A video taken by journalist Jordan Cronin shows Howe push Almiron towards the away end for a special applause as the fans continued to chant his name.
Eddie Howe on Miguel Almiron’s Newcastle future
When asked about Almiron’s future on Friday, Howe implied the Paraguayan could remain at the club this month. He said: “I think Miggy’s head has been very, very solidly here.
“He’s been brilliant in training this week and I’ve seen not one moment where I thought ‘oh, I need to address this or speak to him or have a deeper conversation’
“I think we’re both aware of the situation. Yes, there is interest in him from other clubs. There is potentially a chance he could leave before the window, but until that moment, and if that moment never arises, he’s still a valuable member of the squad.
“We love him to bits, he’s got a great energy and character that’s never changed for a second, been the ultimate professional. And let’s see what happens.”
However, the scenes at St. Mary’s would suggest he is set to depart the club, even if Newcastle fans aren’t thrilled by the idea.
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