EDDIE Howe hailed Miguel Almiron as Newcastle United's "standout performer" in the Carabao Cup victory over Wimbledon and says the winger has a "big part to play" for the Magpies this season.

Almiron has played just two minutes of Premier League action so far this term for United but was handed an opportunity from the start against Wimbledon and Howe felt the Paraguayan took his chance, while admitting others didn't.

Almiron, who was heavily linked with a move away in the summer, will almost certainly drop back to the bench for this weekend's trip to Everton but Howe insists the 30-year-old is still at the forefront of his thinking moving forward.

"I thought Miggy was probably our standout performer creatively," said Howe, with the winger having won the decisive penalty that was scored by Fabian Schar.

"He had two good halves, obviously created the goal for us. He had good energy, linked well especially in the second half.

"I was pleased with him. He has a big part to play. Today everyone fit and available was in the squad. I'm delighted with Miggy."

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Howe made eight changes for the game but admitted some of those who came in didn't grasp their opportunity.

"You have to understand psychology," he said.

"You go from Manchester City to this game, they're totally different and it's difficult for the players coming in. But individually you have to put that aside and show your best qualities in order to give yourself the best opportunity of playing again.

"I probably think knowing the standard of the players, some of them didn't do that today, especially the attacking players and I think they'll be disappointed with that."

Will Osula made his full debut, while Odysseas Vlachodimos came off the bench at half-time to replace the injured Martin Dubravka for his first taste of action in a Newcastle shirt.

Howe said: “I'm pleased to give an opportunity to any player that deserves it. I have to say, since he (Vlachodimos) has come to the football club, his attitude has been excellent, he's worked very hard.

“I thought he did well today coming on because that was a difficult moment for the team. As I spoke about, the set-play threat, the long throws, everyone's coming in our box and every time, you've got to come up with the right answer.

“I thought he claimed one really good ball. I don't think he had much to do in terms of shot-stopping, but he distributed the ball really well."