12 starts in 12 games – Newcastle are absolutely right in offering a new contract to this key figure

Why Newcastle are right in handing a new contract to Mohamed Diame

According to Chronicle Live, Mohamed Diame is set to win a new contract at Newcastle United, possibly by the end of this season. It is suggested that the player had an arrangement with the club to earn an extension, however, it will be triggered after he plays a certain amount of games.

The midfielder’s contract ends by the end of this season but the conditions under which he signed a contract in 2016 means that his future is in his own hands. Diame signed for Newcastle back in 2016 from Hull City for an undisclosed fee.

The French-born Senegalese international has played over 80 games for the Magpies now, and is an important member of the squad under Rafa Benitez.

Furthermore, here’s why the St.James’ Park-based club are right in offering a new contract to this 31-year-old midfielder:

Diame – A key piece in the jigsaw

Diame’s importance in the team has been measured by the fact that he has started every league game this season in central midfield. Fair to say the former Hull City player is doing well to earn the attention of Benitez, since the manager has given him the starting spot in each of the 12 games played.

Dipping into some stats of the campaign thus far, the Senegal international has made an average of 3.5 tackles per game, which is very good to say the least. He possesses a pass accuracy of 72.7% in a team that doesn’t play the beautiful passing game through the lines. From that perspective, the success rate of over 70% is pretty decent.

In terms of the impact he has had in the midfield, Diame covers the ground well to mark the opposition runs into the box, a discipline which is a must under Benitez. He is a snappy tackler in tight and congested central areas, helping the team win possession and start a counter-attack.

Culminating the above facts, it is easy to see why the Newcastle boss has persisted with the 31-year-old in the midfield. Hence, the club is doing the right thing by offering him a new contract, which is certain to be finalised when he plays more games.

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From the player’s perspective, working under a great manager like Benitez should be an honour for him. Therefore, he is, as expected, ready to extend his stay at St.James’ Park.

Stats Courtesy – Whoscored.com