Newcastle United striker Nick Woltemade speaking to reporters while on international duty.placeholder image
Newcastle United striker Nick Woltemade speaking to reporters while on international duty. | Getty Images
Nick Woltemade has scored six goals since signing for Newcastle United in August.
Nick Woltemade has admitted that the Premier League “intensity” was a shock to the system when he joined Newcastle United.
Toon chiefs splashed out £69million to sign a talented German youngster who was a relative unknown to English football. Newcastle fans may have watched Woltemade star at the under-21s Euros over the summer but, that aside, he was fresh off the back of a breakout season at Stuttgart.
Just 12 months earlier, the 23-year-old joined Stuttgart for a free transfer. He was now thrown into a new club with alien surroundings in the most physically demanding domestic league.
Nick Woltemade’s impressive start
“The biggest difference compared to the Premier League is the intensity and physicality. I had to get used to it myself. In the first few games, I often suffered from cramps.
“But my game has become more intense now. I can make more sprints, press more effectively, and work better defensively. That really helps my overall performance.”
Nick Woltemade defends Florian Wirtz
Woltemade also modestly downplayed his own achievements while insisting there is more to Wirtz’s game than goal contributions. He told German media while on international duty: “For every player, adjusting is not easy. But Florian Wirtz is doing very well (at Liverpool).
“On paper, you might not see the goals (from Wirtz). I have probably been in the right spot three or four times, received the ball and scored. But Florian Wirtz is very active in the game, gets lots of touches and makes good plays.”
Read More
Eddie Howe sets Nick Woltemade challenge
Eddie Howe has challenged Woltemade to maintain consistency throughout the Premier League season. He told reporters: “We're really pleased with Nick - really happy with him. On and off the pitch, he's been first class. The way he's conducted himself, handled the move, the way he's embraced his teammates.
"His team ethics are excellent. He's got an ability to score goals, to be in the right position.
"Technically, he's very good. We still have to bring out more in his game and help him in every way we can - the early signs are very positive.
"He's got variety in his game. I don't think he's one-dimensional. His height, but then you add in his technical ability - I think that can be a surprise for opponents. His challenge is consistency and long-term success. Teams will obviously work out plans for him, as we do for all our opponents, and he's got to continue to find a way to score goals."
Continue Reading