Newcastle United injury boost as Nick Woltemade decision made against Wolves
Newcastle United confirmed starting XI vs Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Nick Woltemade makes his Newcastle United debut against Wolverhampton Wanderers this afternoon (kick-off 3pm).
The Magpies signed both Woltemade and Yoane Wissa in the final few days of the summer transfer window, and many had expected the latter to lead the attack versus Wolves due to his Premier League experience.
However, Wissa has been ruled out of the match due to a knee issue sustained on international duty with DR Congo, paving the way for Woltemade.
The 6ft 6in German striker is one of three changes, with Joelinton, back from a muscle injury, coming in for Sven Botman and Harvey Barnes replacing Will Osula. Howe reverts back to a 4-3-3 formation.
Eddie Howe on Nick Woltemade
Howe has called for patience as his new signing transitions from the Bundesliga to the Premier League.
Although the Magpies paid a big fee for Woltemade, he is still relatively new to level football, having only last season made a name for himself at Stuttgart. Howe compared Woltemade’s situation to the man he has effectively been signed to replace.
Speaking about Woltemade before the game, Howe said: “I think we need some understanding, which I know the Newcastle supporters will give him because in my experience here, they've been very understanding of every situation that a player faces.
“It's a very difficult league to come into and instantly feel at ease and comfortable within it. Now, some players have done that and we certainly hope Nick is one of those that looks comfortable in the Premier League with the speed change, etc, all the challenges that he's going to face.
“But it's worth remembering back to Alex [Isak], Alex didn't play every game at the start. He was rotated with Callum and he was bedded in gently and I think that really helped his long-term success. So, every player is different.
“Let's wait and see what happens with Nick, but we certainly support him through every moment."
Eddie Howe previews Newcastle United vs Wolverhampton Wanderers
On Wolves, Howe: said: “I think it's a huge game for us in our Premier League season because it's been a slow start in terms of results. I don't think it's been a slow start necessarily in terms of performances but we need to build momentum into our season very, very quickly.
“The level is so high and Wolves will be difficult and dangerous opponents for us. They gave us two really good games last year, tight games and they were more than in those games and we know and fully respect them, know their quality.
“As always when we play at home, the environment is always a very special one. We need the supporters with us as they have been in every moment and hopefully with the quality that we have in the squad, we can get back to winning ways.