In an exclusive interview with Football FanCast, Rob Lee says that Miguel Almiron has been one of Newcastle United's best players this season, but could still do more.

The Paraguayan arrived for a then club-record fee of £21.6 million and famously struggled to get off the mark for the Magpies, despite no lack of endeavour.

Almiron went 27 games without a goal for Newcastle before netting the winner against Crystal Palace last season. The attacker is a testament to the fact that Newcastle fans will embrace anyone if they give their all, something Lee claims has never been in doubt over Almiron.

The 27-year old has turned a corner this season and is currently the club's second top scorer with five goals and three assists, only behind Callum Wilson with 10 goals. However, Lee still believes there is more Almiron can give to Newcastle during this crucial time.

Lee gave his thoughts to Football FanCast on Almiron and where he can still improve his game and help Newcastle.

"He is one of our better players," when asked about Almiron and how the team will cope during his injury.

Lee added: "I mean, one thing you can never say about him is he doesn't try, he's always giving 100%.

"My criticism is if I'm get attacking players in they've either got to create or score. He runs around but I'd rather someone not run and score 10 goals and create me 10 goals."

There is no doubting Almiron's commitment to Newcastle, which is something they need in a relegation fight. However, could he preserve some of his energy for when he's in and around the box?

Lee was a midfielder himself for Newcastle and knows how you have to play to be loved by the fans, hence his admiration for Almiron's workload. The need for goals is paramount for the Magpies now though.