Perez played through grief
AYOZE PEREZ played in Newcastle’s 3-0 win over Southampton through the heartache of losing his grandmother.
The Spaniard, 24, who helped set up Kenedy’s second goal, dedicated the result to a woman he described as being “like a second mother”.
Perez said: “Last week has been a very hard week for me. Last Wednesday, my grandma passed away. She was like a second mother for me.
“Saturday’s win was for her – and thanks to the fans for the support you showed, it was much needed for me after some sad days. We keep fighting.”
Newcastle will now try to sign Chelsea youngster Kenedy on a permanent basis in the summer. The Brazilian, 23, joined on loan for the rest of the season in January but the deal did not include an option to buy, unlike the one which will see keeper Martin Dubravka join on a permanent basis from Sparta Prague.
That was on Chelsea’s insistence but Newcastle are not giving up on securing the player long-term.