RAFA BENITEZ is convinced Miguel Almiron is already in the perfect shape to become a Premier League star after stunning Newcastle United with his fitness levels since becoming the club’s record buy.

The £20m arrival from Atlanta United has only appeared once as a substitute against Wolves since joining before the January window closed, and got a 45-minute run-out against CSKA Moscow in a Spain-based friendly a week ago.

Almiron has worked consistently on the training ground under the watchful eye of Benitez and the Magpies’ coaching staff and there is no doubt in their mind that the Paraguay international is ready.

Benitez said: “He is exactly what we were expecting and what we were looking for because he is very dynamic and he has pace.

“We were surprised he has very good stamina too. He has the movements we were looking for so I think it is all fine.

“Now we have to see how he settled down in the Premier League with the pace and the physicality. Everyone we saw when we were watching him, we have seen exactly the same in training sessions.”

Almiron looked lively enough against Wolves and now Benitez must decide whether it is worth disrupting a performing team when bottom club Huddersfield arrive on Tyneside today.

Ordinarily there would be no reason to change, but with such an expensive and talented recruit in the squad Benitez is well aware of the buzz that his appearance could create.

Benitez said: “If he is playing (the fans) will say ‘good, the new player is playing’ and if he scores a goal – great decision. If not, they will say ‘oh, why is he not playing?’ Then you have something to talk about.

“Now is a time when we have to decide about things like leaving players out. You do not like to do it but you have to do it.”