The midfielder is yet to find his best form since joining Newcastle United.
Cheltenham Town’s James Dayton in action with Newcastle United’s Mohamed Diame (L) and Jamaal Lascelles
Newcastle United manager Rafa Benitez has backed Mohamed Diame to the Chronicle, saying the midfielder has been unlucky so far.
Diame joined the Magpies in the summer transfer window, giving up Premier League football with Hull City for the chance to move to St James Park.
He has so far struggled to find his best form in the team despite their strong start to the season.
It has led to questions about his continued selection, with some believing that he should be dropped in favour of other options, perhaps a second striker.
Newcastle United Manager Rafael Benitez
Benitez has jumped to his midfielder’s defence, though, insisting he has just been unfortunate.
“Mo Diame is working very hard and he has been unlucky in front of goal,” he told the Chronicle.
“He’s working very hard, he’s trying to do the right things. What would worry me is if he didn’t have chances. If he has chances, he will eventually score goals and that is not a problem.”
Newcastle United’s Mohamed Diame (L) in action with Rotherham United’s Will Vaulks
One solution to the problem with Diame could be Newcastle electing to play him in a number ten role more often.
Recent weeks have seen the midfielder used in the position as Benitez has made use of his ability to play all across the midfield.
The role is arguably one area that this current Magpies line-up is currently lacking in and Diame taking it could be a solution for both parties.
Benitez, though, does not seem to agree saying Diame is not the answer.
“He’s not a proper No 10. We know that ” he added.
“But he’s someone who is doing a great job and he has the legs to go into the wide areas or around behind defenders and to create spaces for others.”
Newcastle United Manager Rafael Benitez
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