Ayoze Perez has proven he has enough quality to represent Spain, believes Newcastle United manager and compatriot Rafa Benitez.
The 25-year-old forward scored his first Magpies hat-trick during Saturday's 3-1 victory over Southampton, taking his tally for the season to 11 goals.
But it is not just his goals which make him vital to this United side; Perez's hard work off the ball, as well as his ingenuity in possession, have seen him shine for the Magpies in recent weeks.
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The forward has stated regularly that he harbours hopes of representing his country one day, and Benitez sees no reason why he can't fulfil that dream if he maintains the high standards he has displayed in recent games.
“I think he said he was expecting [to be called up by Spain] because he was doing well," Benitez said of Perez.
"I think he can play for Spain. At the level he is playing at already, I think he can. But obviously Spain have a lot of good players.
"At the moment, he just has to make sure he continues playing well and, if he does, he will obviously have more chances.
“I think he is doing well, but I am still pushing him a little bit more. He can still do much better, and he knows that, but he is doing well.
"A lot of players have improved a lot, especially in their understanding of the game. There is still plenty of room for improvement, but in terms of the understanding of the game and what they have to do, they are improving. Credit to them because they are keen to listen and try."
Perez's form has improved immeasurably since Miguel Almiron arrived from Atlanta United in January, with the pair forming an excellent partnership up front alongside Salomon Rondon.
During the first half of the campaign, Perez was cheered off when he was substituted during a game as he struggled for form early on in the season - but now he is arguably the first name on the Newcastle teamsheet.
Unfortunately, it appears unlikely that the affectionately nicknamed 'Three Amigos' will play together again this season, however, after Almiron departed the pitch on Saturday in tears after suffering a hamstring injury.
“The way he was on the pitch, it seems he thinks that," Benitez replied when asked if Almiron is set to miss the Magpies' final three games of the season.
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“He was massive for us from day one. He was giving everybody a lift with his pace and workrate, and his assists.
"I think he made a mistake [against Southampton] with the chance he had because he had two options, but everyone was saying 'shoot' because they want him to score a goal.
"There was a chance to play wide, but he has been really important for us. He has been a good addition and I am really pleased for him.
“Everybody will need a rest soon, but hopefully he will be fine. Hopefully, it will not be too serious and he will be ready for next season."
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