Newcastle United manager Matthias Jaissle has delivered a defiant response to growing criticism of his management, with the German insisting he remains confident about the club’s long-term future.
The Magpies have endured a difficult start to the season, sitting 13th in the Premier League after losing five of their last seven matches across all competitions.
Back-to-back defeats against Everton in the Carabao Cup and Premier League have intensified scrutiny on Jaissle, with supporters particularly frustrated by Newcastle’s performances in possession.
Monday’s 1-0 defeat at St James’ Park saw the hosts resort to hopeful long balls rather than the high-intensity attacking football expected under their new manager.
Matthias Jaissle insists he has Newcastle’s backing despite poor results
Speaking ahead of Saturday’s trip to Fulham, Jaissle described himself as calm despite the growing pressure and revealed that Newcastle’s decision-makers remain committed to their long-term plans.
“I try not to follow things that are written and said, but here and there you get (told) some comments. But the nice part is I got even more feeling from within the club how committed they are (to me).
“That’s really important in a week where there has been speculation or rumours. It was good to know and good to feel. But I try in these aspects not to get distracted.”
Jaissle also dismissed suggestions that formal meetings had been necessary to reassure him about his position.
“There was no need for meetings, every day from morning til evening I feel it (the support).
“Here and there you get a message. And that just shows me everyone believes in the long-term project and everyone is also realistic about the journey and where we are right now.”
The German is expected to receive more time to implement Newcastle’s new approach, although results will need to improve if that patience is to continue.
Newcastle boss provides Joelinton and Lewis Miley injury updates
Jaissle also provided an update on two of his midfielders ahead of the Fulham clash, with contrasting news regarding Lewis Miley and Joelinton.
Miley appears to be making encouraging progress, while Joelinton faces another spell on the sidelines after suffering a fresh injury setback.
“Lewis is getting better and better, showed a good reaction, he is making progress how I expected and wished for,” Jaissle explained.
“Joey went out with an injury again, we need to make the final treatment plan for him and see how long he will be out.”
Newcastle will be desperate to have both players available as soon as possible, particularly given their struggles to control matches and establish a consistent midfield partnership.
Jaissle sends message to Newcastle players confused by his tactics
Beyond Newcastle’s disappointing results, questions have also emerged about whether Jaissle’s players fully understand what is being asked of them.
According to Craig Hope, some members of the squad are ‘confused’ by the German’s tactical instructions, with conerns about the use of a No.10 and the tendency to move the ball forward quickly rather than build attacks through midfield.
Jaissle himself expressed frustration after Monday’s defeat to Everton, admitting that the team’s reliance on long balls was not part of his instructions.
However, when addressing the situation on Thursday, the 38-year-old made it clear that players are welcome to approach him directly if they need clarification.
“We listen a lot. It’s not only talking. We listen a lot. We offer them the open door. If anything’s unclear you can drop in and talk about it.”
Jaissle’s message should quiet any suggestions of a fractured relationship between coach and players, but nevertheless Saturday’s visit to Fulham represents another significant test.
A further defeat would inevitably increase the pressure heading into the international break, which could provide Newcastle’s hierarchy with an opportunity to reassess their position.
Sporting director Ross Wilson may also face further scrutiny, having overseen an expensive summer rebuild focused heavily on younger players who have yet to make the desired impact.
For now, Jaissle retains the club’s backing, but Newcastle desperately need performances to start matching the ambitions of their long-term project.
Source: www.footballfancast.com
