West Bromwich Albion loanee Salomon Rondon has been a huge success at Newcastle United this season.
Garth Crooks has praised Newcastle United striker Salomon Rondon for leading the line with ‘distinction’ following his season-long loan move from West Brom.
The BBC Sport pundit stated that the one ‘problem’ for the Magpies is that if manager Rafa Benitez were to part ways with the club then ‘half of the team’ will follow him.
That would seemingly include Rondon, who, at this moment in time, will be heading back to the Hawthorns when his loan deal expires at the end of the season.
Nonetheless, Crooks has praised the manner in which Rondon has settled in at St James Park and how pivotal it is for the team to keep hold of their manager.
“Since his arrival at St James’ Park, the Venezuela international has not looked back. He has led the Newcastle striking line with distinction,” Crooks told BBC Sport.
“The problem for the Magpies is that if Rafa goes, so does half of that team. That team is nothing without Rafa’s leadership and inspiration. The quicker owner Mike Ashley can conclude contract talks with Benitez, the better for all concerned.”
During their last Premier League fixture, Benitez’s side suffered a 3-2 home defeat against title-chasers Liverpool, who needed a late winner.
Rondon scored in that match and the 29-year-old was a problem for Liverpool’s backline throughout the game as he found the back of the net early in the second half.
That goal has taken his tally for the season to 10 in 31 league matches, not forgetting his valuable seven assists for his teammates [transfermarkt].
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
