'Really positive' - Anthony Gordon compares Newcastle United teammate to Harry Kane
Nick Woltemade’s unorthodox style is proving an instant hit with Newcastle United supporters.
Anthony Gordon believes there are similarities between Harry Kane and Newcastle United new boy Nick Woltemade.
Bayern Munich star Kane is widely regarded as one of the best strikers in world football. He has scored 103 goals in 106 games since joining the Bavarians in 2023.
In recent years, the England captain has developed the ability to drop deeper and turn provider for his teammates. Likewise, new Toon arrival Woltemade possesses similar qualities.
Nick Woltemade start at Newcastle United
Four games from five starts since joining the Magpies has silenced the naysayers who questioned his £69million fee. Woltemade was on target again at the weekend as Newcastle put Nottingham Forest to the sword.
What is perhaps more interesting is the German’s unorthodox style of play. Despite his 6ft 6in frame, Woltemade has the dribbling skills and guile of a 5ft 8in winger.
He has been tasked with replacing Alexander Isak but is showing there are more strings to his bow than goals alone. Toon fans are eagerly waiting to see the 23-year-old link up with Yoane Wissa, who remains sidelined following his arrival.
Anthony Gordon compares Nick Woltemade to Harry Kane
Speaking to reporters ahead of England’s clash with Wales, Newcastle winger Gordon compared Woltemade to Kane. He said: “(Harry and Nick) do play a similar style of football. They want to almost be the quarterback. They want to come in and create. They don't just want to finish chances like a typical striker wants to.
“The amount of assists Harry has got in the past couple years and over his career is outstanding. So, for me, it helps me because my style sort of suits playing with that style of striker because I can run off them. If defenders want to go and engage with them, I can run off the back. It's really positive for me.”
Penalty admission
Who would have backed against a German burying a penalty? That is exactly what happened on Sunday when Woltemade stepped up.
He stanchioned a right-footed strike into the top corner, with Gordon - Newcastle’s usual penalty taker - watching on. The wideman admitted he wished he could have taken the spot-kick that sealed the game.
“It was tough (not taking the penalty),” Gordon added. “I was talking about it. I was a bit gutted to come off the pitch because I couldn't take it. But he has done extremely well. He did it well. It was a big moment for him and he's in great form.”