- Newcastle boss Eddie Howe reacts to Woltemade scrutiny
- Julian Nagelsmann questioned Howe’s use of German striker
- The English coach has responded
Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has faced his fair share of criticism for his utilisation of Nick Woltemade, including from German National team boss Julian Nagelsmann.
Prior to the international break, the Germany manager had some harsh words for Howe’s use of the 24-year-old, being ‘a long distance from goal.’ His frontman has been used in midfield for his club during the second half of the season.
Woltemade arrived as one of Europe’s most highly-admired big centre-forwards. But a drop in form led Howe to hand him a makeshift midfield role, which initially cast doubt on his place in the Germany squad
Newcastle testing period for German
In an interview with the Newcastle Chronicle, Howe claimed he is justified in his decisions, as they will have a lasting impact on the player. He said:
“From the players’ perspective, I think it is great for their learning. It is potentially great for their careers.”
When Woltemade arrived at St James’ Park, he was viewed as the Alexander Isak replacement and lived up to the name until December, when things took a turn.
Newcastle were not only struggling but were beginning to face an injury crisis around the new year. With Anthony Gordon’s pace, Howe was keen to use him as a forward, which saw Woltemade switch to the midfield.
It’s been a tricky period, as he has faced a lot of backlash, but the 24-year-old claimed ‘he is bothered’ as he now has a different role. The English manager claims that it’s important to have these options:
“For us, if you have versatile players, it gives you a lot more choice and options on how you play – especially when you have injuries in your squad. It is almost imperative that we have that.”
Captain Bruno Guimaraes and Lewis Miley have both been out for several weeks with injuries; however, both are to return to the squad against Crystal Palace.
Joelinton had a period on the sidelines, whilst Sandro Tonali missed their recent fixtures against Chelsea and Sunderland. It is yet to be seen what happens to Woltemade once Howe’s midfield options are match fit.
Woltemade can’t do what Joelinton did
Howe suggested that Woltemade is open to his positional shift: ‘I think we have some great lads who are willing to play anywhere.’ But many believe he’s trying to replicate his success with Joelinton, who similarly transformed from a struggling striker into a dominant midfielder.
That said, there is a reason why this won’t work a second time. Newcastle’s number 27 has already shown he can find his feet in the box and looks deadly in front of goal. They have lacked creativity, which hasn’t helped him succeed consistently.
His work rate, or defensive contributions, are lacking compared to those of his Brazilian teammate, who immediately thrived in the midfield role. Make no mistake that they both have quality, but perhaps Nagelsmann is right.
You won’t see the best of Woltemade, who has 10 goals and five assists in 45 games, if his skillset is neutralised. It will be interesting to see whether Howe persists with the German in midfield or moves him back to his preferred role.
