Newcastle boss McClaren wants more consistency from Ayoze Perez

Ayoze Perez has attracted many leading clubs since his move from Tenerife 18 months ago, but it seems the 22-year-old forward has yet to win the full trust of his Newcastle manager Steve McClaren.

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The Spaniard has not been getting on the scoresheet with great regularity this term but certain attributes - such as his neat footwork - have turned the heads of clubs who believe he has exciting potential.

Perez is still locked down to a lengthy contract, so McClaren is in no great rush to offer him improved terms.

"Ayoze is someone who is doing very well," he told Louise Taylor of the Guardian. "But he's under contract for a long while, so I don't think that's an issue at the moment. He came here as a player with potential and played a little bit last season."

The former England boss admitted he didn't know much about Perez when he took over in the summer, but has since appreciated his contributions to the first 11. He would appreciate them on a more regular basis though.

"It's taken him a while to get going this season but he's certainly become an important player," McClaren said. "I look at him, though, and he's still got a long way to go. The potential is massive but there's a lot to do. He's got to do it consistently, every game, for 95 minutes. That's what we're asking."

As expected, Perez was drafted into the starting lineup for Saturday's visit of Leicester City, and McClaren believes the Tyneside outfit is an ideal place for the young striker to hit the peak of his powers.

"He's getting development, a good education, the right training and most important of all, he's playing," he said. "It's important he keeps playing and it's also important that he's supported and loved. Here the fans love him, his teammates love him and we love him too. It's a great environment for Ayoze to develop in."