Ayoze Perez admits having no explanation over why he was dropped for Newcastle United’s last game

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Rafael Benitez took Ayoze Perez out of Newcastle United’s starting line-up for their last match against Bournemouth.

Ayoze Perez has told the Shields Gazette that he wasn’t given an explanation over why he was dropped from Newcastle United’s team against Bournemouth.

Perez has been a key player for Rafael Benitez’s side this season, but he was taken out of the starting line-up in the Magpies’ last competitive match.

Dwight Gayle was favoured to Perez in Newcastle’s team, with the former Crystal Palace man partnering Joselu up-front.

However, the change did not have the desired impact, as Bournemouth ran out 1-0 winners.

Perez did come on as a late substitute, but he was unable to get on the scoresheet.

And the Spaniard admits that he still hasn’t have an explanation from Benitez over why he was taken out of the team.

He said: “The manager didn’t really explain to me why I didn’t start.

“It was his decision, and obviously I respect it.

“I was waiting for my chance, which I knew was going to be as a substitute once the team was announced, and I’m always keen to help the team in whichever way I can.”

Some Newcastle fans have been frustrated with Benitez’s patience with Perez, as he has struggled for goals this season.

Perez has featured in every Premier League game which Newcastle have played to date this campaign, but he has only hit the back of the net on one occasion.