Nick Woltemade has done enough to convince former Newcastle United midfielder Jermaine Jenas of his quality.
It seems silly to criticise Woltemade after his fantastic start to life at Newcastle United. He’s already scored six goals for his new club and looks set for a brilliant first season in English football.
Still, it would be equally foolish to completely overlook his recent struggles. Currently, Newcastle’s playing style is not getting the best out Woltemade, so it’s hardly all his fault.
In truth, the German international has made a much better start than almost anyone would have imagined, so is allowed something of a tough period.
Even despite recent struggles, Jenas remains confident Woltemade will get back amongst the goals on a more regular basis.
Nick Woltemade celebrates Newcastle United's second goal against Athletic Club.
Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images
Jermaine Jenas backs Nick Woltemade to score more goals for Newcastle United
Woltemade’s last Premier League goal came against Brighton in October. Though he did score against Tottenham in the Carabao Cup, that was his only strike in the five games since the defeat on the south coast.
Again, Newcastle United’s club-record signing brings a lot more to the party than just his goals, as was evident in the Champions League game against Benfica last month.
Scoring goals, however, remains the most crucial part of his job and Jenas believes they will soon return more regularly.
MORE NEWCASTLE STORIES
Reflecting on his Fantasy Football picks when speaking to the Wildcards Podcast, Jenas said: “I think that’s where I’ve got to aim a lot more of my focus. I am still convinced Woltemade is going to score goals.”
How Newcastle United can get the best out of Nick Woltemade
Woltemade’s style of play, on paper at least, should delight the wingers in the Newcastle United squad.
By dropping deep, he creates space ahead of him in a similar way to what Harry Kane does with England.
Anthony Gordon, Harvey Barnes, Jacob Murphy and Anthony Elanga should all benefit from that.
However, Newcastle are currently not getting many runners beyond him. Against West Ham and Athletic Bilbao, everything was far too congested.
The wingers and midfielders need to run off Woltemade. Otherwise, fans can expect more clunky performances from the team as a whole.