Alan Shearer sets Miguel Almiron challenge for Newcastle United future

Alan Shearer says Miguel Almiron has between now and the end of the season to prove he belongs at Newcastle United next season after the Paraguayan's wonder goal against Crystal Palace. The Magpies are now 15 points clear of the bottom three after last night's win, a remarkable achievement from Eddie Howe and his coaching staff.

Newcastle are now well within a shout of a top half finish after six consecutive home wins, a feat they've not achieved since 2004. It's been a remarkable turn around from the Magpies who were rock bottom of the Premier League prior to the turn of the year.

Almiron has spent the majority of Howe's tenure on the bench, with the fine form of Ryan Fraser, keeping him out of the starting XI. Nonetheless, the injury to the Scotland international paved the way for Almiron, who has been impressive in his last three outings.

Speaking to Match of The Day, Shearer said: "He's one of many players that're playing for their future. We know the situation, we know they're going to invest again. One thing you can never throw at him is his attitude and work rate - always superb.

"But, what you can say is his final end product, crossing and finishing - not tonight. He's got sick yards to catch up on [Tyrick] Mitchell, the left back, not only does he do that, he's got the composure and the pace.

"The finish was unbelievable and the touch from [Bruno] Guimaraes to set him up, then the volley in behind, the weight of pass was magnificent, but he [Almiron] reads it quicker and that's how he gets in behind.

"Still a lot to do, he finds the top corner. As I said, that's been missing from his game, in terms of crossing and finishing, the number of goals is no where near good enough. But, his attitude has been