Miguel Almiron has lifted the lid of the euphoric atmosphere inside Newcastle United's dressing room at present. The Paraguayan has played a huge role in the Magpies' ascent up the table this season, enjoying a purple patch in front of goal in the first half of the campaign.
Newcastle find themselves on the cusp of Europe little over 12 months since facing the possibility of a third relegation in just over a decade. As such, Almiron admits the joy is back on Tyneside this term.
“Last season, the pressure was not to go down and it was hard, so now we try to enjoy each training session to the fullest," he told La Nacion. “We take a lot of responsibility, because we know that qualifying for the Champions League is very big, not only for us but for the club, which it has deserved for a long time.”
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Almiron has cemented his status as a Newcastle mainstay and penned a new and improved contract earlier this year. As well as harbouring aspirations to see his club side succeed in the Premier League and in Europe, the winger has personal ambitions to represent his country at a World Cup.
The 29-year-old is running out of time to make his dream a reality but is hoping Paraguay end their wait for a World Cup appearance, having last qualified for the showpiece back in 2010.
“As I always maintain, we have a great group, the results are not given, but we have to continue working. I think that with the work and the good results we have to make a difference,” Almiron added.
“We have to take advantage of these friendlies and then the playoffs begin. For us it is very important to bring happiness to the Paraguayan people, which I believe they deserve. Whenever I see the national team shirt in the dressing room, it excites me, not only me, but my teammates.
"Wearing the shirt of your country is something unique, representing my country is the best thing that could have happened to me in football. I am preparing myself to the fullest because this could be my last World Cup and I am working hard to arrive in the best physical and mental shape for the qualifying matches.”
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