Nick Woltemade could hardly have imagined a better introduction to life at St James’ Park. The 23-year-old German striker made his Newcastle United debut in Saturday’s 1-0 victory over Wolves, scoring the decisive goal and immediately endearing himself to the Toon Army.
It was a finish of real quality and composure. Rising above his marker, Woltemade powered home a header from a Jacob Murphy cross, sealing Newcastle’s first Premier League win of the season. For a player who arrived with a hefty price tag and some murmurs about whether the club may have overpaid, it was the perfect response.
A new chant for a new hero
Newcastle fans wasted no time showing their appreciation. Throughout the second half and particularly after the final whistle, chants of “Woltemade, Woltemade, ole, ole” echoed around the stadium. The striker admitted he didn’t catch it during the heat of the match but was delighted to hear it afterwards.
“Just at the end, I heard it and I like it,” Woltemade told NUFC TV. “In Germany, the fan culture is different, so to get your own song is really nice.”
It’s a small but significant moment for any new signing. Having your name sung by 50,000 supporters at St James’ Park is as clear a sign as any that you’ve been accepted — and that the fans believe in you.
Howe impressed with instant impact
Manager Eddie Howe also had plenty of praise for his new number nine. “It was a great moment for Nick,” he said post-match. “I was very pleased with how he played. You saw his qualities, his technical qualities and his intelligence. But most importantly for a striker, when the ball comes into the box, you need to be there – and he was.”
Howe highlighted that the goal should help “settle him down and relax him,” noting that Woltemade is a humble player eager to succeed.
Big stage ahead
With Yoane Wissa sidelined for the next month through injury, Woltemade will likely lead the line again when Newcastle host Barcelona in the Champions League on Thursday. It’s a huge occasion and another chance for him to show why the club invested heavily in his potential.
If his debut is anything to go by, Woltemade may quickly turn from a promising signing into a cult hero on Tyneside — chants and all.
