Eddie Howe reveals reaction from Newcastle stars to Nick Woltemade's winner in victory over Wolves - and tells the star where he needs to improve after impressive debut
Below is a summary of the full article. Click here for the full version or go back to LFC Live.net.
Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe’s plan for new signing Nick Woltemade has been disrupted, altering the intended gradual introduction of the young player to the first team. Initially, Howe intended for Yoane Wissa to start matches, with Woltemade being brought on as a substitute in low-pressure situations, ideally when Newcastle was leading comfortably. This approach aimed to ease Woltemade into the squad without overwhelming him.
Specifically, the plan was to have Wissa start against Wolves, then introduce Woltemade from the bench; the same pattern was expected for upcoming matches against Barcelona and Bournemouth. This phased integration was a strategy to manage expectations and pressure on the player during high-profile games. However, as the situation on the pitch and team selection evolved, this plan was effectively "blown out of the water," complicating Woltemade’s initial adaptation process.
Despite the disrupted plan, it was anticipated that Woltemade might receive a starting opportunity against lower-tier competition—for example, against Bradford City in the League Cup—to give him valuable game time under reduced pressure. This gradual build-up was intended as a softer introduction before entrusting him with more demanding competitions.
Fans of Newcastle United have been urged to support Woltemade despite the unexpected changes to Howe’s initial integration strategy, emphasizing the importance of patience and backing the club’s record signing as he settles into the team.
PP