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Islam Slimani’s odd spell with Newcastle United set to end

By Roy Emanuel

LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - APRIL 23: Michael Keane of Everton and Islam Slimani of Newcastle United battle for possession during the Premier League match between Everton and Newcastle United at Goodison Park on April 23, 2018 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Nathan Stirk/Getty Images)
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - APRIL 23: Michael Keane of Everton and Islam Slimani of Newcastle United battle for possession during the Premier League match between Everton and Newcastle United at Goodison Park on April 23, 2018 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Nathan Stirk/Getty Images) /
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Newcastle United did not exactly receive what they were expecting with Slimani.

The January transfer window can be a bit of a gamble for any Premier League side, especially when results and production are expected immediately. Newcastle United and manager Rafa Benitez had high hopes when they added Islam Slimani on a short-term deal in early 2018, but those hopes have seen nothing but disaster.

The striker received a three-game ban from the FA for violent conduct in the Magpies’ recent loss against West Brom, effectively bringing his stint on Tyneside to an abrupt end. The 29-year-old made four appearances for Newcastle, and did not score a goal.

Luckily for Toon fans, a four-game winning streak helped to secure their current position in tenth place. However, Slimani certainly did have the desired impact.

There was plenty to like about his addition, as the Algerian international appeared to be the perfect fit for Benitez’s system.

A tall, physical forward that can finish chances and fight for the ball in the air. With service into the penalty area from wide positions, supporters were preparing for the best of Slimani’s goalscoring abilities.

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Instead, it feels like just another deadline day mistake for United.

Staying in the North East?

The interesting aspect for the forward now is his status with the club, and how he will be spending the coming days. Slimani will continue to train with the squad, even though he will not be eligible for any Premier League matches.

In terms of his own fitness this makes sense, and perhaps can provide some good competition for the team on the training ground. Ultimately, things did not work out as planned but all involved can make the most out of a tough situation.

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Newcastle United and Rafa Benitez thought that Islam Slimani could provide a spark up front this season. He did not, and this week will bring an end to a truly bizarre loan deal.