Newcastle United secured a Premier League victory at the 11th time of asking last weekend, narrowly defeating Watford 1-0 at St. James’ Park.
Ayoze Perez’s first goal of the season secured a crucial win for Rafael Benitez’s side, who had previously managed to pick up just two points from their first 10 matches of the season.
That victory has provided a platform to build upon heading into this weekend’s clash with Bournemouth and fans on social media have given their assessment on Perez, questioning what is next in the development for the Spaniard.
Many gave a rather frank view on the player as they debated whether he actually has a long-term future at the club, will some suggesting he will never be a top-class number 10 and others stating he does not suit their style of play.
We have gathered some of the best responses to the debate below.
I think he should play higher, being behind the main striker is pointless for him.. look at the goals he scores, they’re smart one touch finishes, always clever tap ins or backheels.
— 84% Battery (@40_40vision) November 8, 2018
To be fair to him when he gets the ball in the final 3rd there is usually nobody anywhere near him – same issue for any of our forwards when we generally have all the other 9/10 players behind the ball. Feel sorry for Perez personally, his attributes probably dont suit our style.
— Toon Stew (@toonarmyblog) November 8, 2018
Unfortunately for Perez his basically the entire creative output for the team when we break. Often the wingers are deep defending. Which is fine by me. But he appears worse for it. Just needs to work on his composure. His finishing is great, he such a poacher
— Charlie Russell (@MastrContender) November 8, 2018
Flog him to a bottom half La Liga team. He’ll do okay there, but I’ve seen enough to believe he won’t accomplish much in the PL.
— Ali Al-Mufti (@TheNotoriousAAM) November 8, 2018
Do you think he can develop further? I think he’s at his peak in this league. Def more suited to Spanish football. He’s had a few seasons here. Sure Rafa has tried to work on his game. Some things you just can’t teach/change.
— Marshall (@doolallytap73) November 8, 2018
He has never and will never be a no.10 he needs to be playing on the shoulder of the last defender and start doing those one touch finishes again.
— Aaron Olsson (@AOlssonNUFC) November 8, 2018
Good finisher but gives the ball away an infuriating amount of times. Not a PL No. 10.
— Dean Burns (@deanoburns) November 9, 2018