Aleksandar Mitrovic has the potential to become a “top-rate target man”, believes former Wales favourite John Hartson.
Newcastle United forward Mitrovic scored an excellent equaliser for Serbia against Wales during a 1-1 draw on Sunday evening, meaning he has netted seven times in his last 10 international appearances.
The 22-year-old made only 11 starts for the Magpies during their Championship-winning campaign - scoring just four league goals - and Rafa Benitez is believed to be receptive to selling the forward this summer if a suitable offer arrives.
But Mitrovic’s expertly-taken leveller in Belgrade - the striker flicked the ball past his opposing defender before coolly placing a left-footed shot past Wayne Hennessey - highlights the undoubted talent which the United striker has.
Back in the summer of 2015, Newcastle paid Anderlecht £13million in order to sign Mitrovic, a fee they would hope to recoup if they did allow the forward to leave this summer.
Serbia's Aleksandar Mitrovic celebrates scoring his side's first goal of the game during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Qualifying, Group D match at the Rajko Mitic Stadium, Belgrade (Photo: PA)
And former target man Hartson - who scored 203 goals in 497 club appearances for clubs including Arsenal and Celtic - is adamant that Mitrovic does have all the attributes to become a “top player”, as long as he finds consistency.
“He hasn’t had a chance all night and that’s what top players do – one chance and one goal,” Hartson said of Mitrovic during commentary on the Group D World Cup Qualifier for BBC Radio 5Live.
“There is a really top-rate target man in there somewhere.
“It’s just about consistency and getting the service, but there’s definitely a player there.”