Newcastle boss Rafael Benitez remains relaxed over the future of striker Ayoze Perez despite him hinting he may leave Tyneside The 25-year-old is a player who divides Magpies fans, although his form this season – he has seven Premier League goals to his name including a match-winning double against Everton – has seen him linked with a call-up to Spain’s senior squad and a move back to his native country.
Speaking in a interview with Spanish television programme El Chiringuito, Perez said: “I believe in cycles. I think there is a moment where you plan things, to undergo a change and I think after five years, I think it’s the moment. “To go back to your country and play for a big team and enjoy LaLiga, would be something great for my career.”
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However Benitez, who has been a staunch supporter of a player he believes does not always receive the credit he deserves, insists he has had no indication that Perez is ready to move from St James’ Park.
The manager said: “He is someone you can see who is training well and is focused. When we talk about the future, we talk about doing things here. “He’s not telling me he wants to go, he’s focused here. If he can see the team is doing well, I think he will be happy.”
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