“If I’m to fall, would you be there to applaud? Or would you hide behind them all?”
Newcastle United and manager Rafa Benitez have an important task in front of them today, as three points will be the objective at AFC Bournemouth. Toon fans had been hoping that they would see the debut of striker Islam Slimani versus the Cherries, but instead his fitness situation continues to be a cause for concern.
In yesterday’s press conference, Benitez revealed that the forward’s injury woes will keep him out of action for at least two weeks. Slimani had been working hard recently to be ready, even training in Algeria to prepare for a key fixture.
The 29-year-old has yet to feature for the Magpies since signing on-loan for the rest of the campaign last month.
“Slimani had a set back so he will not be available and will be (out for) at least a couple of weeks.” #NUFC pic.twitter.com/WZdSn7VLrz
— Newcastle Toons (@NewcastleToons) February 23, 2018
The Toon Army will of course be frustrated with this latest update, as the player that was brought in to aid their struggling attack can’t get on the pitch.
With so few games left in the season, the future for both Slimani and Newcastle are uncertain at the moment.
Rafa on Slimani: “We have to be careful with him because he had a problem when he arrived.” #nufc
— Lee Ryder (@lee_ryder) February 23, 2018
Time is running out
Slimani is believed to be keen on making his loan deal on Tyneside permanent, but there is little evidence to suggest that it would happen. Goals are what will ensure his place in Benitez’s team next year, and who knows when that might be seen.
At the other end, Newcastle have to focus on maintaining their Premier League status for 2018-19. Instead, they have added a player who cannot play.
Supporters were excited by Slimani’s arrival on deadline day. However, those good feelings are fading fast.
If the striker does not make an impact immediately once in the line-up, the relationship may only get worse.
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Newcastle United and Rafa Benitez had high hopes for Islam Slimani at St. James’ Park. That is essentially the opposite of what is taking place, and there will be limited time for improvement.