Miguel Almiron just keeps on smiling.
In the second half of Newcastle United's win over Everton on Sunday, an errant pass aimed towards the Paraguayan bounced harmlessly out of play for a throw-in.
Without hesitation, the 26-year-old raised his hand and smiled in appreciation. There was no frustration, no flap of the arms. And that is why so many are taken with Almiron.
The former Lanus midfielder arrived at Newcastle as a playmaker. It was the role he played expertly for Atlanta United as the team challenged for the Supporters’ Shield and MLS Cup –the latter of which they would win weeks before Almiron relocated to Tyneside.
Tata Martino, his coach in Atlanta, described him as an ‘atypical number 10’. It didn’t take long for Newcastle fans to see what that meant, with his creativity on the ball matched by industry and effort when trying to win it back.
His quest for a goal or assist was a frustrating start to life at Newcastle. His effort that struck the post against Huddersfield Town highlighted the fine margins at play, and when he did finally net his first goal – against Crystal Palace last season – there was an added joy that he finally had his moment in front of the Gallowgate End.
Almiron would finish the 2019/20 season with eight goals and two assists in 42 games. A solid return.
This season has been a slightly different situation for Almiron. Against Wolverhampton Wanderers, the 26-year-old was used in a deeper central midfield role alongside Jeff Hendrick.
It meant the majority of his work was without the ball, and involved shutting off passing lanes and trying to win possession back before moving upfield.
Almiron has shown his versatility in the past with Atlanta, playing across multiple positions including out wide and as a second striker. He even dabbled briefly in central midfield as part of a 5-2-3 formation.
When Rafa Benitez signed Almiron it was to play as part of that front three.
The theory behind Benitez wanting the 26-year-old was clear. When he had the ball, Almiron could carry it quickly through central areas and help facilitate quick transitions for the Magpies. When it was launched to Salomon Rondon he could also use his pace to get up in support of attacks and offer a run in behind.
That first trait was true on Sunday against Everton. The best attack of the first-half started with a bursting run from Almiron in his own half before he freed Callum Wilson. From there, Wilson passed it to Allan Saint-Maximin, only for Robin Olsen to save his shot.
It’s unlikely Almiron’s increased defensive responsibilities will end anytime soon. Bruce’s greatest avenue to a goal this season has come via a counter-attack, and for that Almiron is perfect.
Whether the player will feel as comfortable in a role that requires greater balance between defence and attack is unclear.
Most likely, he will approach it in the same way he did that errant pass; with a smile and a willingness to try again.
