Yoshinori Muto flipping a switch would be massive for Newcastle

After scoring in this week’s friendly, Yoshinori Muto may be a key component for Newcastle United when EPL action returns.

Newcastle United are working back into match fitness ahead of their Premier League return against Sheffield United on June 21st. Earlier this week, they played a friendly against Middlesbrough and came away with a comeback 3-2 victory. After trailing 2-0, Yoshinori Muto, Miguel Almiron, and Joelinton scored three unanswered goals in the scrimmage behind closed doors. While Joelinton and Miggy are mainstays in the starting XI, could Muto emerge as a contributor when the EPL returns?

Of course, a single goal in a friendly vs. the 19th-place club in the Championship after three months off isn’t going to propel Yoshinori Muto to score at will down the stretch in the EPL. But, it is a positive first step for a player that’s been largely out of the rotation.

Steve Bruce seemed to hint that Muto might get a chance when play resumes. What if Muto can provide a scoring threat off the bench or even to spell Joelinton in the starting lineup as everyone battles rust? Dwight Gayle has missed big chances this season and Andy Carroll hasn’t found the net and hasn’t been healthy. Why shouldn’t Muto get that chance to be the next up at striker?

Talking with NUFC TV, Muto mentioned how important it is to score as a striker and that he wants to score in the Premier League. He’s only done that once in 24 EPL appearances and has one goal in the EFL Cup. This season, he’s only played in the league seven times with two starts.

As the Magpies get back into action in a couple of weeks, Yoshinori Muto may end up being one of the important players in the attacking group. His pace and dribbling ability could combine well with Allan Saint-Maximin and Miguel Almiron. Then, all that’s left is finding the back of the net.