"We need to work on his physical intensity"

Eddie Howe was back to his smiling best in this morning's press conference prior to the Everton game at SJP tomorrow.

Is Woltemade a 9, 10 or 8?

Where does Eddie see Woltemade's future position at Newacstle?

That was the question put to Eddie Howe and one that most fans would like to hear the answer to after his recent midfield role in the team.

In typical Eddie style he didn't give a direct answer but instead said that having players able to play in different positions was an asset to the squad, albeit that players often have a preferred position that needs to be considered.

However, the comment that stood out for me was this one "We need to work on his physical intensity".

In other words... he needs to be more aggressive in his play.

Regular blog readers will know that from an early stage of the season a lack of aggression has been one of my main concerns about Big Nick.

For a lad 6'6" he loses possession too often simply because he is out muscled in one on one's, either in the air or receiving the ball to feet with his back to goal, or when in normal play.

That was never more evident than in the Qarabag game on Tuesday when he was constantly dispossessed, and his obvious frustration resulted in downbeat facial expressions that reflected a performance he will want to quickly forget.

Woltemade has talent, of that there is no question. 10 goals this season proves that.

Eddie emphasised that he doesn't want to change the way Big Nick plays and that his ability to operate in between the lines of the of the oppo's defence and midfield is an asset. That means Eddie is happy for him to drop back even in the ST role.

Obsessed with Woltemade?

I have dedicated more posts to Woltemade than any other player.

And, fans probably talk about him more than any other player.

But, that isn't an obsession, it's a recognition.

A recognition that Woltemade has talents and faults in equal measure.

A recognition that despite ten goals in the ST position Eddie has moved him back from the forward line.

A recognition that he was signed for £69M as a ST, not a midfielder.

IMO, if Eddie can coach and instill aggression into Woltemade's game, show him how to use his size to overcome strong challenges, and win more of them...

We could yet see a player whose undoubted skills and technical ability could still make him a big success at Newcastle., and fully justify that big fee we paid for him.

Whatever position he ends up in.

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