Nick Woltemade has hit back at critics by insisting he is an "intelligent" player that can make an impact at the top level. His loan exit from Newcastle United has sparked a reaction over whether he was the right fit for Matthias Jaissle and whether his loss of form cost Eddie Howe his job. But Woltemade is revved up to prove a few doubters wrong and is ready to make his debut for Juventus against AC Milan this weekend.
Woltemade Defends His Style
After being deemed unable to fit into Jaissle's playing style, just months after being looked at as a problem player for Eddie Howe, Woltemade said of his own outlook on his position: "It's difficult to answer. I think you can expect a very physical style of play from me, but I think my best and most important qualities are my technique and my understanding of the game. I think I'm an intelligent footballer.
"I can score goals, I can provide assists, I can dictate the final pass for my teammates. I think I'm good at finding the right position on the pitch, and I think, overall, as you'll see, this is my way of playing. I don't think you often see a tall guy who plays like me."
Move to Turin
His whirlwind move to Turin unfolded after Jaissle gave him the green light to leave only hours after the 2-0 win over Tottenham Hotspur, where he signed off after an assist and a great away victory. But it is a case of pastures new for the £69million man who leaves as the club's record signing.
Woltemade said: "I'm obviously delighted to be here. Juventus is clearly a great club, and I'm thrilled about this new adventure. For me, it's another country, and I'm thrilled to play for such a great club.
"For me, Juventus is the greatest club in Italy, so I'm very happy and proud of myself. I'm also proud of my family, my agents, and everyone who works at Juve and made this move possible. I'm delighted to be here and I really can't wait to get started."
Learning Curve
Despite his tough experience on Tyneside, after being dropped despite a glut of goals early in his career, he is hoping to use the last 12 months as a learning curve.
Woltemade said: "Last year I moved to England, where I learned a lot, physically, obviously, but also in terms of tactical intelligence. These are all aspects I've brought with me.
"Now I'm happy to be in Italy and playing in another big league. In particular, I'm now at a big club like Juventus, so that's something very positive for me.
"I honestly can't wait to get started. It's always difficult for me to say what my goal is in advance: I just want to enjoy the moment, and I think that, if I can do that, I'll be able to express myself at my best on the pitch. We'll see how things go, but first and foremost, I'm very happy and can't wait to play!"
