Benitez Could hand Almiron first start

Newcastle boss Rafael Benitez says Miguel Almiron is ready to make his first start in Saturday’s Premier League clash with Huddersfield. The Paraguay international became the Magpies’ record signing when he joined for a reported £20million from Atlanta United during the January transfer window and he enjoyed an impressive cameo when he made his debut as a substitute against Wolves earlier this month.

Almiron has also been impressing in training and he featured in Newcastle’s friendly draw with CSKA Moscow last weekend.

Benitez feels the 25-year-old is now ready to start in the Premier League, although he stopped short of confirming whether he will be in the starting XI when Huddersfield visit St James’ Park this weekend.

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Asked if he was fit enough to start against Huddersfield,” Benitez said: “I think so. It’s another important decision to make. We have enough players. “He (Almiron) has done well. it’s not easy to go to a new league. You need some time.”
Benitez also confirmed that midfielder Jonjo Shelvey is available once again following seven weeks out with a thigh injury, which means Ciaran Clark (knock) and Rob Elliot (back) are now the only members of the squad on the treatment table. “Apart from Elliot and Clark, everyone is available,” Benitez added. Jonjo is the last one to come (back). He’s pushing now. He’s training well.”