Aleksandar Mitrovic has only started once for Newcastle United in the Championship.
Aleksandar Mitrovic has told Chronicle that it has been difficult playing second fiddle to Dwight Gayle at Newcastle United this season.
Mitrovic has only started once for Newcastle in the Championship, despite being a fans’ favourite at St. James’ Park.
The Serbian has been unable to displace Gayle in Rafael Benitez’s starting line-up, as the former Crystal Palace striker has been in prolific form.
Gayle has netted 11 goals in his first 12 Championship appearances, and looks set to be Newcastle’s main man up-front.
However, Mitrovic has given Benitez something to think about – as he netted twice in Newcastle’s 6-0 victory over Preston North End in the EFL Cup in midweek.
And the powerful forward said: “It’s not been easy for me as a striker because you have Dwight Gayle who is scoring every game. I say I love Dwight, I like him a lot as a person and as a player. I will keep going and that’s all I keep saying.
“I am working hard. If you are a good player you have to push yourself until you get your chance. I am doing that. I hope that when I get my next chance I will score and do well again.”
Mitrovic was given a rapturous ovation as he left the field by Newcastle’s supporters, who have taken the target-man to heart since he signed.
Mitrovic’s obvious passion has made him a very popular figure at St. James’ Park, but without regular first-team football it remains to be seen whether he will be happy to stay with Newcastle.
Newcastle’s next match comes against Preston North End at the weekend, when Dwight Gayle is expected to come back into Benitez’s starting line-up.
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