Miguel Almiron started on the bench once again as Newcastle United drew 1-1 with West Ham United on Saturday.
When reports emerged that Allan Saint-Maximin was going to miss the game at the London Stadium, fans began to wonder what change Eddie Howe would make.
Some called for Bruno Guimaraes to make his first start, while others wanted Almiron to get a chance.
Instead, Howe went with Jacob Murphy. The £12million man did well at times, causing plenty of problems in the first half. However, he faded in the second half – such was the work rate he provided down the left.
Almiron did get a chance against West Ham, replacing Ryan Fraser with 11 minutes to go. The Paraguayan barely got a kick down the right, and will be wondering what he has to do to get a start.
Jacob Murphy clearly ahead of Miguel Almiron in the pecking order
Since Howe was appointed, Almiron has barely featured. The once record signing has only started three Premier League games under Howe, all of which came in December.
He was a regular this season under Steve Bruce, but his minutes have diminished since the change of manager.
While most players have benefitted, Almiron has suffered. Joe Willock has improved, Joelinton has improved, Jonjo Shelvey has improved. But Almiron has regressed.
His best position is either on the left or as an attacking midfielder. Sadly, left wing belongs to Saint-Maximin and Howe doesn’t use an attacking midfielder.
When he is playing, Almiron is stuck on the right like he was under Bruce. He doesn’t thrive out there, perilously handicapped by his inability to use both feet.
When a space opened up on the left flank on Saturday, Almiron must’ve thought this was his chance. But Howe snubbed him once again, and went with Murphy.
That was a real blow for the 28-year-old, and will leave him questioning his future with Newcastle United. His time at St James’ Park could be coming to an end.
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