Ayoze Perez believes his goal against Barnsley was “even more special” than the original flick which helped launch him into the national conscience - because his latest strike helped deliver Newcastle United the title.
The 23-year-old scored the opener during the Magpies’ final-day 3-0 victory over Barnsley by inventively side-foot flicking DeAndre Yedlin’s low cross into the net.
Many Magpies fans commented on how similar that finish was to the strike which really launched Perez’s United career against West Bromwich Albion.
Back in November 2009, Perez scored with an audacious flick to open the scoring at The Hawthorns and really thrust himself into the limelight.
And, though that West Brom goal will always have a place in Perez’s heart, it is the Barnsley flick that he will remember most fondly.
“When I saw Yedlin going to the byline, I ran straight in front of the defender,” Perez explained of the goal.
“Yedlin then crossed a strong pass, so I stuck my foot out for a little deflection because I knew it could go in.
“Those little deflections have been great goals for me.
“That little touch makes the difference and I’m happy for it.
“It is similar to the one I scored at West Brom, I like these goals - but this one is even more special because we are Champions.”