Sean Steur has revealed that uncertainty over his future role at Ajax helped convince him to join Newcastle United.
The 18-year-old moved to St James’ Park in July and has already been handed significant Premier League responsibility by Matthias Jaissle.
Speaking to ESPN, via Goal, Steur explained that major changes at Ajax left him questioning where he fitted into their plans.
He ultimately felt Newcastle represented the better next step.
Steur explains Newcastle decision
Steur admitted his choice was partly based on instinct and the belief Newcastle showed in him.
Ajax had moved towards greater experience, while the teenager was unsure what role awaited him in Amsterdam.
That made Newcastle’s approach particularly appealing.
The Magpies signed Steur to a five-year contract after he had spent his entire development at Ajax from the age of seven.
His decision attracted criticism in the Netherlands, but former Newcastle boss Ruud Gullit has already backed Steur to prove those doubters wrong.
Newcastle teenager admits physical challenge
Steur has also been open about the next step required.
The midfielder told ESPN he is still developing physically and cannot yet maintain his level for a full 90 minutes.
That was visible against Hull City, when Steur started in midfield but was withdrawn after around 70 minutes following an impressive display.
Jaissle has nevertheless trusted him with meaningful first-team minutes rather than restricting him to academy football.
That progress has now earned Steur his first Netherlands U21 call-up.
Only months after leaving Ajax, the teenager is already showing why Newcastle believed he was ready for a much bigger role.
