Ayoze Perez reveals what's 'obvious' about his future as he reflects on his five years at Newcastle United
Perez netted twice in Newcastle United's 3-2 win over Everton last weekend.
The strikes took Perez top-flight tally for the club to 27, and two more goals would make the forward the club's outright 10th-highest scorer in Premier League history.
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Hide AdPerez, approaching the fifth anniversary of his move to St James's Park, has spoken to Spanish publication Marca about his form, Rafa Benitez, his international hopes and a return to Spain.
Asked if he hoped to play in La Liga one day, Perez said: "Yes. I'm very grateful to Newcastle, but it's obvious that someday I would like to come back and play in La Liga."
Perez, for the moment, is happy at Newcastle, where he has improved under the guidance of Benitez.
"I have improved physically and, above all, in making decisions," said the former Spain Under-21 international. "The experience makes you read the game better and decide faster.
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Hide Ad"I've had several roles. Now I play on the right. Obviously, I have to work, but then, with the ball, I have freedom."
Now one of the most experienced players in Benitez's squad, Perez, signed as an unknown from Tenerife in the summer of 2014, believes he has matured at Newcastle.
Only defender Paul Dummett has made more starts for United than Perez, who is under contract at the club until 2021.
"I have lived in Newcastle at a very important stage of my life," said Perez. "I have grown and matured here. In fact, I'm the second player with the most time in the squad."
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Hide AdPerez – who has scored six league goals so far this season – has been tipped for a Spain call-up.
Asked if he felt he was ready to play for his country, Perez said: "Of course. I'm ready, and hope to see myself selected. It would be incredible for me. I keep fighting. I hope it happens."