Lazaar is still awaiting the chance to make a major impact for Newcastle following his summer move.
Achraf Lazaar has explained that his respect for Newcastle United boss Rafael Benitez went to another level after the Spaniard reached out to him before he joined the Magpies, the Chronicle reports.
Lazaar was one of a number of signings that the Championship side made during the summer window as they looked to build a squad capable of returning to the Premier League at the first attempt.
Lazaar, during his time with Palermo
And he explained that he had no doubts about joining Newcastle once he had spoken to Benitez about a St James’ Park switch.
“When the manager spoke to me the first time he said he wanted guys who wanted to win and stay in a good position in the league. Once a manager like Rafa Benitez has called you, there is only one choice,” he said, as reported by the Chronicle.
Newcastle United manager Rafa Benitez
“He called me and I respected that so much. He told me he knew all about me from Italy and I came straight away.
“I want to help this team get better and I will give me all.
“I will show my quality, and I would love to make my name in England with this team. It was an extraordinary moment for me to sign for Newcastle.”
Unfortunately for the 24-year-old, he is yet to make a notable impact for the Magpies, having spent much of the early part of the campaign out with injury.
He has so far made just two appearances in all competitions since arriving, but the Chronicle reports that he is now back to full fitness so he will undoubtedly be looking to prove to the club’s supporters exactly why Benitez made such an effort to bring him to England in the first place following the end of the international break.
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