Newcastle United striker Ayoze Perez has come in for a fair amount of criticism during the 2018/19 season so far.
With poor performance and poor results seeing us winless so far under manager Rafa Benitez, the 25-year-old was one casualty of his own showings and he began the game on the bench. There were even slight boos when the gaffer was ready to bring him on as a substitute against Watford last Saturday.
Any concerns at that decision soon evaporated as he found the back of the net in the 65th minute to not only bag his first goal of the year but also ultimately our first win and three points.
Having taken his criticism previously on social media, it was time for him to get some praise as fans celebrated his goal and the result.
Thank god for Perez. #nufc
— Anthony Candler (@cheeseball1913) November 3, 2018
Outstanding that #NUFC got 3 points, massive win – just need to make sure Perez doesn’t swan round the next 10 games missing chances as per ush
— Ian (@IanM75) November 3, 2018
Delighted with today, not delighted with this. Muto did more in the first half than Perez has done all season (argue with stats but you’ll be proved wrong). It’s a goal and win for club….celebrate it wildly together #nufc pic.twitter.com/zKTmmGtohH
— Pete Brown (@TheTallLankyOne) November 3, 2018
Much improved performance and luck was slightly in our favour for a change (although losing three to injury so early and hitting the underside of the bar I feared the worst). Phew! #NUFC
— Steven Medd (@BorisBedd) November 3, 2018
Absolutely huge 3 points for #NUFC today but those injuries are a CONCERN. Perez can be infuriating at times but fans are quick to forget the important goals he's tucked away ⚫⚪⚫⚪⚫⚪
— Sam Wilkinson (@Wilko_SJ) November 3, 2018
Im so relieved we have finally got that win! Hopefully gain confidence from that and kick on!! Each player gave 110%!! Happy perez has done something!! #nufc
— Jordon (@greggas90) November 3, 2018
Not only do fans hope this is now a turn in form for the club on the pitch, Perez will no doubt be hoping there are now better days ahead for him on a personal level as well.