Aleksandar Mitrovic says he wants a transfer away from Newcastle

By Joe Shread

Wednesday 27 December 2017 17:29, UK

Aleksandar Mitrovic says he is seeking a move away from Newcastle due to his lack of game time at St James' Park this season.

Mitrovic has made only six appearances in the Premier League for Rafa Benitez's side this campaign and is seemingly behind Dwight Gayle, Joselu and Ayoze Perez in the pecking order for a starting place in Newcastle's forward line.

Speaking to Serbian website Zurnal, Mitrovic said: "I persistently waited for the chance of the past months. I'm sorry after all, I loved Newcastle, but it's time for me to look more at myself, to find the best solution for my career.

"I tried to be honest with myself and my team-mates at every training and match. The fact that I did not get a chance is simply not up to me. Everyone knows that I was left in the background.

"I never felt better, I'm physically in flawless form, I cannot wait to play. The most important thing is to find a club and finally get a chance in the field."

The January transfer window opens next week but, while he has expressed his desire to leave, Mitrovic has admitted he is unsure which club he may join, saying: "There is no concrete offer."

The 23-year-old joined Newcastle for £13m from Anderlecht in July 2015. However, he has scored only 14 league goals since moving to England, and only five since the beginning of last season.