When the highly-rated Aleksandar Mitrovic joined Newcastle United for a fee in the region of £13m back in the summer, he arrived with claims of an “attitude problem” hanging over his head.

From his illustrious spell at Anderlecht, the big Serb’s extravagant haircuts and aggressive playing style attracted the interest of non-football lovers, as well as avid lovers of the beautiful game.

During his fruitful time in Belgium, Mitrovic netted 36 times in 69 games – an astonishing feat considering his age and lack of experience at the time.

So, it was no surprise that loyal supporters of the Toon were excited about the arrival of the 21-year-old frontman.

Upon his arrival, it was only a matter of minutes before Mitrovic became loved by the Geordie faithful.

He described Newcastle icon Alan Shearer as his “idol” and declared, with an abundance of confidence, that he hoped to emulate the success of the Premier League’s all-time top scorer.

When a video from years ago emerged on the internet of Mitrovic saying the Magpies were his favourite team from the Premier League, the 21-year-old had already won the hearts of the fans.

His first few games were unsuccessful, to say the least.

Mitrovic, as we all know, attained a controversial red card against Arsenal at St. James’ Park a few months ago and an element of fear coursed through the veins of Newcastle followers.

After securing his £13m move to his favourite club, Mitrovic promised to bring three things: Goals, aggression and fight.

Indeed, Mitrovic hasn’t scored as many goals as we would have liked him to, but do not let that cover up the impact he has had on United’s style of play.

For me, he has brought so much more than aggression and fight to a team that lacked belief or passion in last season’s horrendous season.

Four goals in 18 games isn’t exactly an impressive tally, and some of the chances missed by the hefty striker don’t help his cause.

However, after observing him thoroughly this season, Mitrovic is arguably one of the most important players on the pitch.

He acts as a dominant focal point for Newcastle. His awareness of the players around him, his exquisite control and manipulation of the ball, and finally, his ability to bring others into play, are things to be admired.

As the weeks go by, both his work rate and his hold-up play seem to improve.

The fact that Newcastle have created the second-least amount of chances in the Premier League this season doesn’t make Mitrovic look any better than he already is.

It’s quite easy to see that he thrives off of accurate crosses into the danger zone, and this is something that a width-deprived Toon side do not provide enough of.

The sheer courage and bravery showcased by Mitrovic this season is something to be lauded.

Stepping up to take a crucial equalising penalty in front of over 52,000 fans in a bouncing St. James’ Park is not easy, especially when you know that some people are doubting you.

However, when the confident self-believer in Aleksandar Mitrovic stepped up to take the spot-kick, the ball was only going to one place – the back of the net.

The passion he displays during games is amazing to see.

Any time he or one of his teammates score a goal, Mitrovic lets out a massive roar that oozes love for the club and a desire to win.

Yes, he’s not the goalscorer Newcastle need right now, but Aleksandar Mitrovic is getting there.

I’m absolutely confident that if Newcastle stay in the Premier League for years to come, the Serbian fan favourite will become a regular goalscorer for the Magpies.

Placing all of our eggs into the basket of a 21-year-old was foolish, but, given time, Mitrovic will deliver the goals, as he said so himself.

Take the time to nourish and polish the rough diamond that is Aleksandar Mitrovic and it will be time well spent, in my book.