Rafa Benitez is being patient with Yoshinori Muto

Rafa Benitez is keeping a close eye on Yoshinori Muto as he adjusts to the English Premier League.

Rafa Benitez recently spoke to the Shields Gazette and he provided some insight regarding his thoughts on Yoshinori Muto – the most expensive summer signing for Newcastle United.

In his interview for the regional newspaper, Benitez stated that he was happy with the progress that Muto has made since his arrival on Tyneside. The Spaniard went on to make the following statements:

"What I can see every training session is commitment, passion, work rate, but still you can see he was fouled a couple of times (against Palace) and the referee didn’t give a foul, so he was complaining and waiting[…]So he needs to understand that the Premier League is different, and then you have to carry on. Some players, they need one year. Some players, they six months. Some players, they need one month. So, for a new player, always you have given him some time, and he has to be as positive as he is in every training session"

From his experience as a Premier League manager, Benitez understands that Muto has the talent to play in England, but it will take him some time  to adjust to the style of play in the Top Flight after spending three seasons in the Bundesliga.

Muto’s Role Going Forward

Thus far, Muto has made five appearances for Newcastle, all as a second-half substitute. The Japanese striker is eager to get more playing time as a starter and that could happen sooner rather than later.

Salomon Rondon is expected to be the main striker for Newcastle this season, but that does not place Muto in the shadows. Ayoze Perez has struggled in every match this season and his offensive contribution has been non-existent.  The Spaniard’s poor form should open the door for Muto to break into the starting lineup for the Magpies.

With that being said, however, if Muto was to replace Perez in the lineup, Muto would have to play as an attacking midfielder rather than a traditional striker. Then again, Benitez has also been unpredictable with his lineup selections this season and it would not be surprising to see him grant Muto the chance to perform as the main striker.

The Japanese international scored 20 goals in 66 appearances for FSV Mainz 05 in the Bundesliga. He has not been able to score yet as a Magpie, but with time he should be able to get his name on the score sheet.