Mikel Merino was handed a starting chance for Newcastle United against Liverpool.
Merino’s starting chances have been limited of late, but he was given the nod to replace Jonjo Shelvey on Saturday.
The Spaniard did not impress in the contest, with his display not showing his best form.
Merino struggled to keep pace with the match, and the Spaniard admits he is not yet back to full fitness.
“I felt tired out there,” Merino said. “When you’re not playing regularly, that’s normal, because minutes on the pitch give you energy.
“I feel good. Of course, it’s not easy when you are defending all the game, but I worked hard and tried to do what the coach wanted.”
Newcastle were beaten 2-0 by Liverpool, with Rafael Benitez setting his side up very defensively.
The Reds scored their first goal through the prolific Mo Salah, before Sadio Mane added a second.
Newcastle have now slipped down to 16th place in the Premier League table, and sit just two points above the relegation zone.
The Magpies are next in action at the weekend, when they take on Southampton.
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