Newcastle United are set to welcome Liverpool to St James’ Park for the Premier League opener.
Ewen Jaouen is excited ahead of the new campaign after impressing in Newcastle United’s final pre-season friendly.
The Frenchman made his St James’ Park bow against Strasbourg - impressing with two saves in the penalty shoot-out. Ultimately, his efforts were in vain as the visitors inflicted another defeat on the Magpies.
Newcastle stumble into the new season having only beaten 10-man Valencia as preparation. Defeats to Bristol City, Everton, Bayer Leverkusen and Strasbourg - alongside a draw with Gateshead - have some supporters fearing the worst.
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‘Everyone is happy’ - Ewen Jaouen
However, new recruit Jaouen is staying optimistic and has insisted the players are keen to learn under Matthias Jaissle. He told NUFC TV: “This is a new coach (with a new) tactical approach. There is a lot to learn. It has been two weeks since he arrived, it is quite new for everyone, including the new players. I think we are in a good way (place).
“Everyone is happy to hear what he has to (say) to make us better. Everyone is hearing what he’s saying. I’m really excited about the weekend that is coming against Liverpool. We want to play in the Premier League. It will be a really good game and we’re looking forward to it.”
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Ewen Jaouen reflects on penalty shoot-out
Jaouen waiting until the final moment to decide which way to dive proved crucial in saving two spot-kicks. He was let down by his teammates but opened up about his mentality when facing a penalty taker.
“I’m happy (to make two saves) but quite disappointed also,” Jaouen said. “I wanted to win the penalty shoot-out. I’m 50/50, I would say. I don’t have pressure on me (when it comes to penalties) - it is all on the taker.
“I just have to try and get in the mind of the penalty taker. I try to play my game, make him wait as long as possible. “It was special to play here. I can see that the fans, even for a friendly game, are here and pushing behind us to perform. So it is really nice.”