Newcastle could do with Mikel Merino right about now

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Newcastle United are struggling in midfield.

Magpies boss Rafa Benitez has lost Ki Sung-yueng to the Asia Cup, which has proven to have had a negative effect on the team.

Mohamed Diame and Jonjo Shelvey have been struggling with a hip and thigh injuries respectively, and Isaac Hayden still wants to leave the club this month.

It’s meant that Benitez has had to turn to promising youngster Sean Longstaff in recent weeks.

Longstaff had been impressive for the U23s and finally made his senior debut against Liverpool in December.

Remarkably, he looks like Newcastle’s only nailed on starter at present.

Given the lack of solid options in the middle of the park at present, one wonders if Benitez has regrets over a former player.

Merino departure must sting for fans

Although the emergence of Longstaff is a positive to take from the situation, there will be many a Newcastle fan thinking back to the sale of Mikel Merino last summer.

Merino joined Real Sociedad for £10 million (Chronicle Live) after falling out of favour at St. James’ Park, despite showing signs of real promise during his 12 months with the club.

He unfortunately couldn’t put together a consistent run of games, and Benitez suggested he had no choice but to allow the player’s departure.

In La Liga, Merino has made 12 appearances for Sociedad, scoring two goals and making one assist.

Merino impressed early on for his new club but has faded away recently, which is sure to sting the Newcastle supporters even more.

The fact is, with Hayden wanting out and the others sidelined, Newcastle are in need dire need of a midfield ace – Merino might well have been that player had Benitez put more faith in him.