Magpie Merino: I need to clear my mind
Newcastle United’s Mikel Merino says he’ll go away and “clear his mind” in the summer.
The Spanish midfielder has found his opportunities limited by the form of Mohamed Diame and Jonjo Shelvey, but came off the bench in Saturday’s 2-1 defeat to Watford.
The 21-year-old hopes to get more minutes in the Magpies’ final two games against Tottenham (Wednesday) and Chelsea (Sunday). “Yes, players always want to play, and even more when you thing you are doing the correct things,” said Merino. “The coach decides who has to play, and I’m here just to try to use my skills and motivation.
“I’m happy now for the few minutes I’ve played, and I hope to have some more. Rafa gave a chance to (Javier) Manquillo and (Jacob) Murphy. They earned it. Hopefully, I can play.”
Pamplona-born Merino – who signed a five-year deal in October – has been linked with Athletic Bilbao and Real Sociedad in recent months. Asked about the speculation, and ifhe was happy on Tyneside, Merino said: “I’m happy. We have these two matches, and then I’ll clear my mind and relax with my family and loved ones and enjoy my holidays.”
On the defeat at Watford, Mewrino added: “They started the match brightly, with a lot of intensity, and did the things that they had to do.
“We had a lack of focus or maybe the things were not as we wanted from the beginning. We had some big chances, and it’s a shame we didn’t take them.”
Newcastle take on Tottenham at Wembley on Wednesday. “Maybe playing against a big team gives us even more motivation to approach the game with intensity,” said Merino.