Slimani finally takes Toon bow
NEWCASTLE fans will at last get to see Islam Slimani in a Toon shirt on Saturday – two months after the striker joined on loan from Leicester.
Slimani has been sidelined with a thigh injury since arriving at St James’ Park at the end of January. But Rafa Benitez is set to include him in his squad for the home game against Huddersfield.
The Algerian came off the bench to play 25 minutes for his country in their 2-1 defeat by Iran on Tuesday.
Slimani reported no ill-effects but will still be assessed by Newcastle’s medical team and, if given the all-clear as expected, will start on the bench.
Slimani was brought in to replace Aleksandar Mitrovic after the Serb joined Fulham on loan on deadline day.
While Slimani has spent the last few weeks on the treatment table, Mitrovic has been banging in the goals for club and country.
His double for Serbia against Nigeria took his tally to nine in 10 games since his move. TOTTENHAM’S impressive performances this season have given them the belief needed to win at Chelsea on Sunday, according to midfielder Lucas Moura. “We’ve had great games against Manchester United, Arsenal and even against Juventus,” said Moura, left. “I’m sure we can produce a great game against Chelsea. I’ve been waiting for this kind of match.”
LEICESTER will assess forward Kelechi Iheanacho ahead of Saturday’s match at Brighton after he broke a bone in his hand before Nigeria’s friendly with Serbia.