Newcastle United head coach Matthias Jaissle has revealed that Matias Fernandez-Pardo was struggling with a sickness bug during Saturday night's defeat to Aston Villa, which forced the winger off the pitch.
The £51million summer signing from Lille went straight down the tunnel during the match after being deployed in a wide right position, having been moved from his usual centre-forward role. Fernandez-Pardo is yet to score for the club since his arrival, with Newcastle's tactical difficulties compounding his difficult start on Tyneside.
Jaissle Explains Sickness Issue
Speaking after the match, Jaissle said: "During the match he was not feeling 100%. He has been suffering with a sickness feeling. So you also need to consider that."
The head coach also hinted that Fernandez-Pardo could see more opportunities out wide in the future, adding: "In general, especially in the first 30 minutes he used his strength on the wing. It is an element we can use more often for sure."
Confidence and Future Role
Jaissle had attempted to boost the 21-year-old's confidence in the build-up to the game by insisting he was flying in training. Despite a bright opening 20 minutes on Saturday, Fernandez-Pardo faded as the match turned against Unai Emery's side.
Speaking last week, Jaissle said: "He's really top (confidence-wise). We are convinced that it's just a matter of time. I watched him today in the session, when he got a couple of more finishes. Pure class. I have full conviction he will perform again on a good level and hopefully he will get the rewards."
Player's Ambition on Arrival
When signing for Newcastle in September, Fernandez-Pardo had stated: "In terms of my own career progression, it made complete sense to come so I didn't hesitate at all. I know the club, I know about the stadium, I know it's a fantastic atmosphere. I've followed the team. What I've seen is a team that's very ambitious, wants to attack, get forward, really chase teams and go after them, and that's really something I want to take part in as well."
He added: "I'm still young, I'm still hungry, and that's why I'm here, and I want to make that progress with Newcastle. I can't wait to start the wonderful adventure here."
