Newcastle United: Toon Takeaways from the friendly vs. Preston

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PRESTON, ENGLAND – JULY 22: Aleksandar Mitrovic of Newcastle United holds off a challenge from Ben Pearson of Preston North End during a pre-season friendly match between Preston North End and Newcastle United at Deepdale on July 22, 2017 in Preston, England. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images) /

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Aleksandar Mitrovic: The Serbian striker is rumored as a possible departure this summer. He got the start ahead of Dwight Gayle today and he did what he always does against Preston North End: score.

Mitro was the center of the action for Newcastle and physical dominated the central defense. He knocked home a rebound of Paul Dummett’s shot. The performance today was a positive one, no matter which way you look at it. If Rafa is on the fence about selling him, the strong outing may sway him to keep Mitro on the squad. In the other direction, if Rafa’s set on moving the striker, a performance like that only helps his transfer value.

Florian Lejeune: The French central defender impressed again in his second time out. He’s show good timing defensively and a strong soccer IQ.

His possession of the ball and distribution have been welcome sights. A center back that isn’t afraid to push forward and move the ball around effectively is a valuable weapon. It’s only been two preseason friendlies, but the acquisition of Lejeune looks to be a successful one.

Rolando Aarons: It’s encouraging to see Aarons’ trademark pace and fearlessness with taking on defenders. He’s been a breath of fresh air in both friendlies so far.

Aarons played a part in the lone Newcastle United goal, beating his defender to the end line before sending in a low cross. That ricocheted out to a charging Dummett, whose shot was blocked, then knocked home by Mitro. A healthy Rolando Aarons is a huge boost to Rafa’s club.