“Quiero contar contigo.”



Those three words have been the making of Miguel Almiron. His idol, Tata Martino, uttered them to him during a phone conversation in November 2016 as he signed for Atlanta United. Then, in February ahead of his home debut for Newcastle United, Wor Flags unveiled a banner in the Gallowgate End bearing the message, “Wor Almiron quiero contar contigo”.



Although the saying does not directly translate into English, it essentially means, “I want to rely on you”.



While some players would be burdened by such lofty expectation, the Paraguayan has relished the responsibility bestowed upon him on both sides of the Atlantic. If he is to thrive in the post-Rafael Benitez era at Newcastle, a similar level of faith will need to be placed in him.



As Almiron told The Athletic last July: “My objectives have always been to work hard and to win for Atlanta. As a player, you like to hear good things about...