Miguel Almiron holds no grudges towards Jack Grealish and would shake his hand despite the Manchester City man s disparaging jibe.
Grealish suggested team-mate Riyad Mahrez had played like Almiron after being substituted in City s victory over Aston Villa to secure the Premier League title on the final day of last season.
The England international has since acknowledged he regrets the comments in a clip that went viral on social media – referencing Almiron s previously underwhelming performances for Newcastle United.
Almiron s form has since upturned, with the Paraguay international scoring seven goals in eight games for Newcastle before the World Cup break, and he insists he has no issues with Grealish.
I didn t pay a lot of attention, I was on holiday with my family, Almiron told The Daily Mail. And I didn t have a mobile phone signal! So no, I didn t watch the video. I wasn t bothered.
I m not interested in that. Jack s a great player and I will always wish him all the best. He s at Manchester City for good reason. I just avoid making any comparisons.
It s about me focusing on what I do. It s no big deal.
WOR MIGGY!
Miguel Almirón has been named the Premier League Player of the Month for October!
— Newcastle United FC (@NUFC)
Almiron believes Grealish s apology highlights the character of the 27-year-old.
He added: I saw the interview and heard that he spoke positively about me. I ve never had anything against Jack and have maintained all along that I think he s a great player and a good guy.
There s never been any issue for me. It was a nice interview and the fact he spoke the way he did reinforces the type of person he is. I would shake his hand, no problem.
Almiron returns to Premier League action with Newcastle at Leicester City on Monday.