Newcastle fans fume as Antonio Barreca aims dig at Rafa Benitez

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Antonio Barreca aimed a dig at Newcastle United manager Rafa Benitez for his lack of game time on Instagram before quickly editing the caption – but eagle-eyed Newcastle fans are not impressed.

The 24-year-old has only managed four minutes of senior football since Benitez brought him to Tyneside on a loan-to-buy deal from Ligue 1 side AS Monaco.

He made his debut immediately after signing, coming off the bench in a defeat to Tottenham Hotspur for the final few minutes. But he has failed to make the matchday squad since, missing seven league games.

Barreca posted on Instagram, captioning a picture of himself training: “I’m here too, have you forgotten?” before quickly editing the post to read “I’m doing my best to be ready for the first chance.”

The signs were there from the off that Barreca may not make it. Jordan Lukaku was considered first choice, but the Lazio defender failed a medical. Barreca had only played nine times for a struggling Monaco side earlier this season.

His post has seen Newcastle fans react on Twitter, with many considering whether he deserves to be given a game over makeshift left-back Matt Ritchie – a man who is held in legendary status on Tyneside for his work done at the club.

https://twitter.com/JasonHellyer2/status/1113583459761512448

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https://twitter.com/matt_fidler/status/1113548773316276225

https://twitter.com/Duncan_Mason/status/1113493083952427009