Howe Sees Wissa Return as Key to Unlocking Newcastle Attack
Eddie Howe believes Yoane Wissa’s return to fitness could be the spark that brings the best out of Nick Woltemade as Newcastle finally prepare to deploy their £124 million strike force together.
Wissa marked his first start for the club with a goal in Wednesday night’s Carabao Cup quarterfinal win over Fulham, ending a frustrating wait after a knee injury suffered on international duty delayed his debut. Until then, record signing Woltemade had been forced to shoulder the attacking responsibility alone.
Howe has not ruled out using both forwards in tandem, although he accepts Wissa offers a profile closer to that of former talisman Alexander Isak. The head coach was encouraged by the contrast in styles and the immediate impact Wissa provided on his return.
Wissa’s movement, particularly his runs in behind and ability to stretch Fulham’s back line, stood out at St James’ Park. His willingness to make sharp, selfless runs created space and offered a different rhythm to Newcastle’s play, something Howe feels can accelerate Woltemade’s development.
The timing of Wissa’s comeback is significant. Newcastle have booked a third Carabao Cup semi-final in four seasons and remain ambitious in Europe, but league form has dipped, leaving them 12th in the Premier League after an uneven start to the campaign.
The departure of Alexander Isak to Liverpool in a high-profile summer move has inevitably altered Newcastle’s attacking identity. Howe admits the loss of such a multi-skilled forward has been felt, particularly in a season disrupted by injuries and a congested fixture list that has limited time on the training ground.
At St James’ Park, the atmosphere on Wednesday reflected a sense of relief as well as optimism. Newcastle started with greater intent, Wissa’s early runs setting the tone and allowing midfielders to play forward quicker. Woltemade, operating as the focal point, benefited from the extra space created around him.
Fulham threatened in spells, forcing Newcastle into defensive concentration, but the hosts looked more balanced going forward. Wissa’s goal came from decisive movement in the box, a reminder of the instincts Newcastle have lacked at times this season.
After the break, Newcastle controlled large periods but still showed moments of vulnerability, with missed chances preventing them from putting the tie to bed earlier. Tactical adjustments focused on managing energy levels rather than chasing further goals.
Late on, Fulham pushed for a response, creating brief moments of tension, but Newcastle held firm to secure progression and maintain momentum heading into a demanding run of fixtures.
Attention now turns to Saturday’s Premier League clash with Chelsea, although Howe faces a growing defensive injury list. Full-back Tino Livramento is the latest concern after picking up a knee problem that could rule him out until the new year.
For Newcastle, Wissa’s return offers a timely boost. With attacking partnerships beginning to take shape, Howe will hope this marks the start of a more fluent phase of the season, both domestically and in cup competition.