‘He’s a throwback’ - Former Newcastle United captain names one current player Geordies will love
Nick Woltemade continued his positive start to life at Newcastle United against Everton.
Alan Smith believes Nick Woltemade’s presence as a striker is tailor-made for Newcastle United.
A goal against Everton took his tally to seven for the season across all competitions. Woltemade has silenced the doubters in Germany - mainly from Bayern Munich - who criticised the £69million transfer fee.
Not only has the 23-year-old needed to fill the gap left by Alexander Isak, he is shouldering the goalscoring burden while Yoane Wissa remains sidelined. Toon fans have found a new cult hero to worship, with Woltemade joining a myriad of beloved strikers at St James’ Park.
Alan Smith raves about Nick Woltemade
Speaking to NewcastleWorld via Football Odds, former Magpies captain Smith insisted Woltemade’s style makes him a guaranteed hit on Tyneside. He said: “I think he’s done well! He’s an old-fashioned No.9 and a little bit different, a bit of a throwback with good feet for a big man.
“But he’s hit the ground running. I like his style and character and can see that the Geordies would absolutely love him.”
Alan Smith on Newcastle United target
Smith also backed a European finish and Champions League progression as a solid campaign for Newcastle. He added: “Getting European football (should be the target) and they’ll want a good run in the Champions League.
“That’s what the fans will be looking for. Just get through group stages and then go from there see if they can get to round of 16, to the quarter-finals and look from there.”
Dan Burn on Newcastle United priority
Dan Burn previously named Champions League qualification as the club’s top priority. He said: “This season, our target is to get Champions League football again. There’s only once before in our history where we’ve achieved back-to-back Champions League seasons.
“It’s something that is a target for us. I know we haven’t started well but, if we want to hit that target, we need to kick on. I feel like you can slip away from the top and it’s hard to get back up there.”