Last night marked a significant moment in Miguel Almiron’s career as he scored his first international goal for Paraguay.
The Newcastle United forward showed real bravery to connect with a wonderful cross and power a header home but also hurt himself in the process.
This was the 25-year-old’s 21st cap for his country and should provide him with a confidence boost before he heads to Anfield – where a lot of Toon fans will be hoping he can get that elusive first goal for his new club.
Almiron was signed in January by Newcastle for £20m from Atlanta United and in 14 appearances he has not scored or assisted, however, this does not tell the true story about Almiron because he has made a big impact on the side.
The forward is lightning quick and is brilliant at relieving pressure for his team.
In the Toon’s 1-0 win over Tottenham Hotspur Almiron was the main outlet and moved his team up the pitch quickly.
Last season as well Ayoze Perez and Salomon Rondon scored most of their goals after Almiron joined – as he created space for them because teams didn’t know if they should press Almiron or sit off him, allowing the two Newcastle forwards more space to operate in.
The feeling on Tyneside is that the end product will come from Almiron and, hopefully, this goal for his country will kickstart his Magpies career.