Newcastle face striker setback as Yoane Wissa debut delayed
Newcastle United will have to wait to see new signing Yoane Wissa in action, with Eddie Howe confirming the £55 million forward is unavailable for the clash with Wolves after picking up an injury on international duty.
Early momentum interrupted
Wissa, brought in from Brentford to strengthen Newcastle’s attack, sustained a knee issue while representing DR Congo. Although there had been hope he could make an immediate impact, Howe revealed the striker is not ready to feature.
“Unfortunately he won’t make this game,” Howe said. “I saw him yesterday for the first time since he joined us and he’s still feeling the effects of the injury.”
For Howe, Wissa’s capture was more than just a big-money move — it was about securing proven Premier League quality. “Strikers with his record are very difficult to recruit,” the manager explained. “He’s scored consistently over a number of seasons, and we know the qualities he can bring.”
Fixture challenges mount
The timing of the setback is less than ideal, with Newcastle about to enter a hectic run of matches. Their Champions League campaign begins next week at home to Barcelona, alongside a demanding domestic schedule. Wissa’s absence adds to the strain, especially with fellow summer signing Jacob Ramsey also sidelined.
Ramsey, signed from Aston Villa for £40m, is expected to be out until after the international break due to an ankle injury sustained against Leeds. Howe admitted: “That’s a big blow for us.”
Opportunity for Woltemade
Despite the frustrations, Howe does have options. Nick Woltemade, the £69m arrival from Stuttgart, is fit and in contention. The manager praised the 22-year-old’s attitude: “He’s adapted quickly, he’s calm and he’s looked right at home in training.”
For now, Newcastle must be patient as they wait for Wissa’s debut, while Howe looks to integrate his new arrivals during a crucial stretch of the season.
Leave a Reply