The Newcastle United forward has improved significantly this season.
Newcastle United’s Yoan Gouffran celebrates
Magpies star Yoan Gouffran sat down for an exclusive interview with the club’s official website, and offered an explanation as to why he struggled last term, citing the fact that he was played out of position and how he was affected by injures.
The 30-year-old Frenchman made the move to St James’ Park from Bordeaux in January 2013, for a fee believed to be in the region of £1.4 million, and has since gone on to make 134 appearances in all competitions for Newcastle.
He made just eight appearances during the Tyneside outfit’s doomed Premier League campaign last term, failing to register either a goal or an assist.
This season has been a different story, however, with Gouffran having a much more positive impact on his side’s campaign, scoring seven goals and chipping in with three assists.
And the Frenchman spoke to NUTV about his upturn in fortunes this term, highlighting his gratitude to Rafa Benitez for giving him the opportunity to prove himself this season:
Newcastle United’s Yoan Gouffran celebrates
“Last year was really hard for me because I didn’t play a lot, I didn’t play in my best position either, and I wasn’t involved. When we changed the manager I was injured so I didn’t play towards the end of the season. Then there was a new season with new ideas. The manager has been honest with me, saying: ‘If you want to move we can give you a move, but if you want to stay you can stay because I am happy with you. So I said: ‘I want to play for you, for Newcastle.’ And he has given me my chance, and I think I have done well. I enjoy playing again.”
The Magpies currently sit top of the Championship table, but cannot afford to rest on their laurels, with third placed Huddersfield Town just six points behind them, with a game in hand.
Newcastle United’s Yoan Gouffran celebrates
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