Nick Woltemade gets emotional talking about Eddie Howe and Newcastle United
Nick Woltemade has enjoyed a fine start to life at Newcastle United since arriving for a club-record fee.
Nick Woltemade has thanked Eddie Howe for making him “feel good” at Newcastle United.
After helping the Magpies earn a 2-0 win over Nottingham Forest, the striker also commented on the “connection” he has already found on Tyneside. Woltemade arrived with pressure on his shoulders given the club-record £69million price tag.
Not only that, but the small matter of replacing Alexander Isak - having never played in the Premier League - also provided a steep challenge. However, the German has netted four goals in five starts to become the new fans’ favourite at St James’ Park.
‘I feel good’ - Nick Woltemade
Speaking to the BBC post-match, Woltemade opened up about how his new manager has helped him settle at the club. The 23-year-old said: “He (Howe) makes me feel good. I have one-on-one conversations with him every day. They are mostly about topics that have nothing to do with football. Like my move, or how my family is doing.
“It is a great working culture here. When you score as a striker on the pitch the feeling is really good. But also outside (of football), I feel really good. The gaffer is such a good gaffer. I’ve only been here for four weeks but I feel such a good connection.”
Eddie Howe on Nick Woltemade
Ahead of the Forest win, Howe revealed his gut instinct about Woltemade and whether he could handle the Premier League pressure. He told reporters: “It’s never lost on me, the psychology factor, the responsibility that comes with the position. Not everybody can take that here. I felt immediately when I spoke to him, he could. That’s sometimes a gut feel rather than any statistical data that you can get.
“You look historically, the players in that position that have had the best careers here have all had that ability to absorb pressure and go, maybe, games without scoring but still retain that belief in themselves. Ultimately, it comes down to that inner drive and that inner self-belief, it’s absolutely crucial for any player in that position.”
Bruno Guimaraes on Alexander Isak comparison
When asked about the differences between playing with Woltemade and Alexander Isak, Guimaraes added: “It is different. They’re different players, both great players but I’ve never seen a player this tall be so good with the ball.
“He controls the ball and controls the tempo. He can play as a midfielder, to be fair. I’m pleased for him. It’s just the beginning. I hope he is enjoying his journey so far. Everyone at the club is happy with him. Most importantly, the fans.”