Nick Woltemade is going to change the way that Newcastle United play, but Shay Given has noticed a problem.
The 23-year-old returned to the starting XI on Sunday, as Newcastle drew 0-0 with Bournemouth.
After his perfect debut against Wolves, it was much tougher for Nick Woltemade down on the south coast. He did not come close to finding the net, as a limp Toon attack struggled to create chances.
His big moment came early in the second half, with Woltemade’s penalty appeal turned down. His shirt was clearly pulled in the box by Bournemouth defender Bafode Diakite, but Newcastle’s protests were waved away.
That was Woltemade’s brightest moment in the penalty box, on an afternoon that saw the Magpies have just one shot on target.
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Shay Given wants Nick Woltemade to get in the box more
That is a problem for former Newcastle United goalkeeper Shay Given, who is keen to see the Magpies’ new striker become more of a poacher and show more desire to score goals.
He spoke about Woltemade on BBC Match of the Day, highlighting a clip that saw Newcastle’s most expensive signing combine well with Jacob Murphy before failing to get in the six-yard box.
“This is really good linkup play from Murphy and Woltemade,” he said.
“Now, can he bust a gut to get in the box? I think he should be darting across the middle of the six yard box, trying to get in. Murphy’s got an easy pass, in my opinion.
“But he [Woltemade] wants to stay out the box as a number 10. That’s where Eddie and his staff will have to work hard. We need you in the box to score goals.”
Eddie Howe admits Newcastle United are changing as Nick Woltemade gets up to speed
Newcastle United with Nick Woltemade are very different to Newcastle United with Alexander Isak. They are very different centre-forwards, and Eddie Howe has admitted it will take his side time to change the way that they attack.
“I think just naturally we’re going to be a different team attacking-wise this year without Alex,” he told the Telegraph.
“I’m hopeful we’re evolving to a different team, hopefully a better team, but it may take a bit of time.”
Despite making just three appearances, Newcastle have seen exactly what Woltemade can bring to the table. He is immense with his back to goal, popping off one-touch passes that can unleash the Magpies’ quicker players. That is what resulted in Newcastle scoring against Barcelona on Thursday night.
The giant German is offering something that Isak could not, and it will take time for Howe’s side to adapt.
However, there is also a need for Woltemade to score the goals that Isak has left behind. That means getting into the box and becoming a poacher, which is what Given wanted from him against Bournemouth.
That should come in time, as Woltemade continues to learn what Eddie Howe and the Newcastle United coaching staff want from him.
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