Eddie Howe Bournemouth
Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe faced a challenging situation as Yoane Wissa, the club’s £50 million star, was sidelined with a knee injury sustained while playing for DR Congo. This development compelled Howe to exercise caution with Nick Woltemade during the recent match against Barcelona, opting to name the German international on the bench. With an eye on the upcoming fixture against AFC Bournemouth, Howe was left with limited options for a recognized striker, necessitating careful management of player fitness.
Eddie Howe said: “It is impactful and of course everyone wanted Yoane to be fit. There’s nothing personally I would have done differently. We did everything we did as a football club to try to look after Yoane. But it’s like with any footballer when they go away on international duty, you’re not in control of the minutes they play and unfortunately, he gets injured and now we just have to deal the best we can with that situation.”
Howe further commented on Wissa’s potential return: “We think he’ll be out until the next international break. He’s sort of got a race on to be fit for that Brighton game. Hopefully, he can make it and then, of course, he’ll be such an important player for us.”
Reflecting on the news of Wissa’s extended absence, Howe remarked: “Again, it’s one I’m not in control of, so I’ve tried not to give it too much emotion. Of course, we’re devastated that he’s injured; nothing is in our control.”
The absence of Yoane Wissa has undoubtedly impacted Newcastle’s attacking options, forcing Howe to reconsider his tactical approach. The manager’s decision to keep Nick Woltemade on the bench against Barcelona underscores the need for strategic player management, especially with the team’s upcoming match against Bournemouth. Howe’s comments reflect the challenges faced by clubs when players participate in international duty, where control over their playing time is limited.
Wissa’s injury timeline suggests a potential return by October 18, just in time for Newcastle’s away fixture against Brighton. The club is hopeful that Wissa will recover in time to bolster their squad for the crucial encounter. Meanwhile, Newcastle fans can look forward to the club’s Champions League campaign, with a special edition souvenir available for purchase to commemorate the occasion.
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