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Newcastle United: This weekend’s break arrives at a good time for Slimani

By Roy Emanuel

LEICESTER, ENGLAND - JANUARY 16: Islam Slimani of Leicester City evades Markus Schwabl of Fleetwood Town during The Emirates FA Cup Third Round Replay match between Leicester City and Fleetwood Town at The King Power Stadium on January 16, 2018 in Leicester, England. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images )
LEICESTER, ENGLAND - JANUARY 16: Islam Slimani of Leicester City evades Markus Schwabl of Fleetwood Town during The Emirates FA Cup Third Round Replay match between Leicester City and Fleetwood Town at The King Power Stadium on January 16, 2018 in Leicester, England. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images ) /
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Newcastle United’s striker should be set to face Bournemouth next week.

Newcastle United and manager Rafa Benitez are still feeling extremely positive after their victory against Manchester United, and fans are certainly enjoying the good vibes as well. The coming weekend brings a break in action due to the FA Cup, and it is a time that the Magpies can use to their advantage with their new striker.

Deadline day signing Islam Slimani has yet to make his team debut, and part of that fact has been due to injuries and working his way back to full fitness. With an extra week to prepare for Newcastle’s next match at AFC Bournemouth on February 24, the Algerian international will have ample time to recover.

Slimani has been present in training, but was not a part of the squad that defeated the Red Devils at St. James’ Park.

Joining United on-loan from Leicester City until the end of the current campaign, the talented forward will not have much time to make an impact on Tyneside.

There will definitely be a high level of expectation for Slimani in terms of production, as the Newcastle attack has been far from consistent in 2017-18.

Peak condition

While of course Benitez’s side would like to still be taking part in the FA Cup tournament, the approaching days can be utilised to get their new weapon ready for the next league fixture.

Slimani rushing to get back on the pitch before he is truly healthy could only end up as a disaster, and keep him on the bench even longer.

He is believed to be very interested in making his loan deal permanent, and the only way that will happen is if he can score goals.

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Newcastle United and Rafa Benitez will not be playing a game this weekend. However, that can be a boost for Islam Slimani.