Newcastle United head coach Matthias Jaissle has hinted that Nico Gonzalez is in line to face former Toon midfielder Sandro Tonali when the Magpies travel to Tottenham Hotspur this weekend. The £50m signing from Manchester City has impressed in training over the past 48 hours, raising expectations that the Spain Under-21 international could make his debut at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
Jaissle backs Gonzalez to adapt quickly
Asked about Gonzalez's chances of featuring, Jaissle said: "He [Gonzalez] trained with us and he looked sharp. He is a smart player, he has huge potential, and already he brings huge quality to the squad."
"He has a huge potential and already brings so much quality in the squad, so I think he will adapt fast into our system, into our way of playing and then we can enjoy."
A debut for the 21-year-old would be a major boost for the 3,083 strong Toon Army travelling to the capital for another London invasion.
Jaissle wary of Spurs threat
Jaissle has one point on the board in the Premier League after a creditable draw against Liverpool at St James' Park, but is seeking his first victory in his maiden away game in English football. Newcastle won 2-1 at the venue earlier in the year, and a repeat would help continue the early feel-good factor Jaissle has brought to Tyneside.
Looking at the game itself, Jaissle said: "We will be facing a top team and it is a difficult challenge. But we will not change our approach. We are facing a really strong opponent, but with our playing style, we can cause any opponent's problems."
The ex-Hoffenheim centre-back added: "We're doing our best and have a clear picture of what to expect. But we also need to be honest. We are facing a top, top team that will fight for the top places in the table for sure with these signings. But it's a good challenge."
