Newcastle reach emphatic verdict on future of 21-year-old – report

Thu 1 June 2017 9:26, UK

By Derek Smithson

Newcastle have told youngster Rolando Aarons that he does feature in the club’s plans going forward.

The Chronicle claim that Rafael Benitez has told the 21-year-old that he will be included in the first team going forward, despite making just five appearances last season due to injury.

It is understood that manager Benitez ensured the England Under-21 international remained an important part of the dressing room last year and invited him to their title winning celebrations in the dressing room.

The report details that the winger should be available for pre-season training and will then be focusing on forcing his way into the side for the team’s Premier League return.

Aarons was nearing his return at the end of last season and was desperate to be involved in the closing weeks.

The wide man has not featured in a competitive senior match since August 2016 and has had to deal with a serious knee injury.

Football Insider verdict:

Newcastle will be doing the right thing by keeping Aarons at the club as they need to continue bringing through young star. The winger looked a great prospect when he first burst on to the scene at St James’ Park, but his serious bad luck with injuries has halted his career. However, he is still just 21 and has his whole future ahead of him. Aarons will provide real pace and skill when he returns to full match fitness, something that could prove crucial in the Premier League. Benitez seems particularly keen on the talents of the youngster and that should give him a major boost moving forward.