Aleksandar Mitrovic states his desire to leave Newcastle United

“Oh me, oh my – say so long baby, bye-bye!”

Newcastle United did not build upon last weekend’s victory at West Ham yesterday, defeated by Manchester City at St. James’ Park. Ineffectiveness in the attack was a concern, and now it appears that one of their strikers will be departing the North East in January.

Prior to kick-off against City, Aleksandar Mitrovic expressed his desire to find a new club in an interview with Serbian website Zurnal. The words are surprisingly blunt, and these reports certainly do not indicate that the forward will be a part of the Magpies for 2018.

With limited appearances recently and little to suggest that Benitez will change the situation, playing time is a major influence on the 23-year-old’s decision.

“I persistently waited for the chance of the past months. I’m sorry after all, I loved Newcastle, but it’s time for me to look more at myself, to find the best solution for my career.”

Mitrovic received minutes in pre-season fixtures, and was normally chosen for the matchday squad. Everything seemed to change for him after the squad’s home victory versus West Ham, and the consequences that followed the game.

Violent conduct led to a three-match FA ban, and the relationship between player and coach never truly recovered. Mitrovic went on to stress the toxic nature of what was happening around him.

“I tried to be honest with myself and my team-mates at every training and match. The fact that I did not get a chance is simply not up to me. Everyone knows that I was left in the background. I never felt better, I’m physically in flawless form, I cannot wait to play. The most important thing is to find a club and finally get a chance in the field.”

Importance for club and country

Mitrovic’s scoring record with Serbia has been outstanding, but he also requires a consistent role with his club side for those moments to continue.

At a time when he feels that he can make a difference on the pitch, frustrations are surely reaching a serious level. Newcastle need a solution at striker, and this news has come as more confirmation of what the team craves on the front-line.

Next: Benitez's job security and accountability at Newcastle

Aleksandar Mitrovic has been a very popular figure amongst the fans at Newcastle United, but his time will soon be coming to an end.