Serbia pick Mitrovic for Wales clash

NEWCASTLE United striker Aleksandar Mitrovic has been named in the Serbia squad for next month’s World Cup Qualifier against Wales.

The Magpies forward scored four goals and provided six assists during a frustrating league campaign - but he did get to lift his hands on the Championship trophy.

Serbia currently top World Cup Qualifying Group D, ahead of the Republic of Ireland on goal difference.

They are also four points clear of third-placed Wales after five rounds of fixtures.

Paul Dummett could yet be part of the Wales squad who will head to Belgrade on June 11 (7.45pm kick-off) looking to claw back ground on the pool leaders.

But a victory for Serbia would see the Eagles take command of the group and move a giant step towards qualifying for the World Cup in Russia next year.

Interestingly, Mitrovic’s form for Serbia has far eclipsed his goal-scoring return for United over the past year.

In nine international matches, Mitrovic (below) has netted six times over the last 12 months – including four in as many World Cup qualifiers.

Yet for Newcastle, the forward made only 15 starts in all competitions, scoring six times.

Mitrovic’s gametime increased during the final weeks of the season, but with Newcastle now a Premier League side once again, the 22-year-old – like much of the squad – faces an uncertain future.

Rafa Benitez could yet decide to sell the forward this summer, with recruiting a proven top-flight goalscorer the Spaniard’s priority during the transfer window.