MERINO’S ‘INCREDIBLE’ MOMENT WITH UNITED
MAGPIES FOCUS
Mikel Merino says scoring his first Newcastle United goal was an “incredible” moment in his career.
The midfielder netted the club’s late winner against Crystal Palace on Saturday.
Merino, signed on a permanent deal from Borussia Dortmund earlier this month, had started the game on the bench.
And the 21-year-old – who headed a deflected Matt Ritchie corner beyond Julien Speroni – was just happy to be able to play his part in the Premier League game.
“It’s a great feeling and really happy to have score my first (goal),” said Merino.
“I’m more than happy to have got three points too. I don’t score a lot of goals, but it is nice to have got this goal that has earned three points.
“It doesn’t matter how you score as long as they go beyond the three posts.
“For me, it’s incredible to help the team and to see everyone celebrate it like this.
“It was tough game, this game. We could have lost or won, small details.
“It was important for us to keep going in the right direction in the league.”
Merino, initially signed on a season-long loan, has been a revelation this season.
The Spain Under-21 international quickly adjusted to the physicality and intensity of Premier League football after being pitched in after the dismissal of Jonjo said the Pamplona-born player.
“It’s important to stay relaxed and focused on what you’re doing. Maybe some days you don’t play as well and you’re told you are a bad player. I’m grateful for that.
“I just have to say thanks to everyone for believing in me and I want to carry on.”
Merino hopes to play for his country at senior level,
“As a player, you always want to have big ambitions, to think and dream big,” said Merino.
“I’m no different. I’m not going to say I want to do this or that, because I am just young. I have other things to do first.
“The important thing is to think about the small steps