LIVE
...

Follow us on

Soccer News

Rafa Benitez says Ayoze Perez has given him a problem he likes

Newcastle United's Ayoze Perez celebrates after scoring their second goal (REUTERS)
Follow us on Google Discover

Perez scored twice in the 2-0 win over Cheltenham Town in the EFL Cup.

Newcastle United's Ayoze Perez celebrates after scoring their second goalNewcastle United’s Ayoze Perez celebrates after scoring their second goal

Newcastle United manager Rafa Benitez believes he has a ‘nice problem’ with Ayoze Perez finding the net twice in the side’s 2-0 win over Cheltenham Town in the second round of the EFL Cup.

Benitez seems pretty happy that it isn’t just the one player providing goals for his side but didn’t say anything to suggest that Perez will definitely keep his place in the starting XI for the weekend’s game against Brighton & Hove Albion on Saturday evening.

Newcastle United manager Rafael BenitezNewcastle United manager Rafael Benitez

The Newcastle boss is quoted in the Chronicle, saying: “It is easier for opposing defenders when they know who gets the goals because they can control him, and it reduces the chances to score.

“In this case when there are more players scoring goals it’s always good for the team and the manager.

“It’s actually a problem for me but I like this type of problem.”

Newcastle United's Ayoze Perez receives medical treatment after sustaining a injuryNewcastle United’s Ayoze Perez receives medical treatment after sustaining a injury

Either way, it seems that Perez has done his chances of remaining in the side no harm, but given that Benitez likes to make changes to his side in order to keep the squad fresh, the chances are Perez will get more opportunities to show what he can do.

Benitez confirmed that both Aleksandar Mitrovic and Dwight Gayle have suffered from concussion, forcing them to leave the field. Given that both of them provide goals to the side, Perez may be a little more assured of some part to play on Saturday in order for the side to maintain a prominent goal threat from someone who has shown some kind of form.

Newcastle United manager Rafael Benitez before the gameNewcastle United manager Rafael Benitez before the game