Newcastle United top scorer Miguel Almiron has revealed his "lucky" boots are being held together with glue after splitting earlier this season.
The former Atlanta United star has nine goals for the Magpies this season, matching the number he managed in his first three-and-a-half seasons with the club. That is enough to make him Newcastle's top scorer in all competitions, with Eddie Howe's side into the Carabao Cup final and in contention for a top-four finish in the league.
Almiron's fine form was briefly under threat, though. His boots were damaged when the Paraguay international scored in the win at Spurs, but kit man Neil Stoker saved his bacon.
“My lucky football boots had opened up like a sandwich,” Almiron told FourFourTwo. "I told Neily that he had to do something because I’d scored again!
"He’s a genius – somehow he stuck it back together with glue and they’re still going strong. I just hope they’ll last me the season. Then I’ll sign them and give them to him as a present.”
The goal against Spurs was his sixth of the season, and firmly established Howe's team as Champions League contenders. Almiron was also on target in the following two games, and returned with a goal against Leicester on Boxing Day after the World Cup break.
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Almiron, who turns 29 on February 10, played more than an hour on Tuesday as Newcastle beat Southampton to book their place in the Carabao Cup final. He is also in line to feature against West Ham on Saturday as Newcastle look to cement their top four spot ahead of fifth-place Spurs taking on Manchester City the following day.
The South American has been in fine form ever since a dig from Manchester City star Jack Grealish during last season's title celebrations. Howe doesn't consider the war of words to be critical to the turnaround, but did praise his top scorer in November.
"I think Miggy’s motivations are much bigger than that and greater than that," the former Bournemouth manager said. "Any comment anyone can make in the world whether it is about me or someone else you have to have a bigger picture.
"The bigger picture for Miggy is being the best he can be for Newcastle. He loves the club, the supporters love him, he loves the supporters back and his motivations are greater than any comment from any individual. He is proud to play for his country as well so he has huge positive things in his life that drive him.
“Down the years I’ve learned never to underestimate players’ abilities given the right surroundings, conditions and confidence. You never know what someone is capable of until you start working with them. Miggy’s starting scoring goals and I’m really pleased for him, but his overall performances have been very strong."
