The feeling around Newcastle United this weekend was one of immense relief and quiet optimism.
After a start to the Premier League season that had yet to see them secure a win, the team finally broke through with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers.
The winning goal, a powerful header from record signing Nick Woltemade on his debut, provided a magical moment for the fans and a crucial three points for the table.
It was the kind of gritty, determined performance that shows a team’s character, and it offered hope that the campaign is now properly up and running.
Manager Eddie Howe was full of praise for his new striker after the match. He spoke about the incredible reception Woltemade received from his teammates in the dressing room and highlighted not just the goal, but the intelligence and technical quality the German displayed throughout his time on the pitch.
Most importantly, Howe pointed out the striker’s instinct to be in the right place at the right time, a natural goalscorer’s trait that you simply cannot teach.
The goal, he suggested, would do wonders for the player’s confidence, helping him to settle into his new surroundings and relax under the weight of his transfer fee.
However, just as one major positive emerges, another challenge seems to appear for Howe and his coaching staff.
The excitement of the victory was tempered by official news regarding another key summer signing, Yoane Wissa.
According to reports, the striker picked up a knee injury while away on international duty with DR Congo and is now expected to be sidelined for the next four to five weeks.
While the club has confirmed that the injury is not as severe as a dreaded ACL rupture, which is a small relief, the timeline is still a significant blow.
This means Wissa will likely miss the next six matches across all competitions, including the glamorous UEFA Champions League opener against Barcelona and important Premier League fixtures.
For a player the club invested heavily in to provide goals and experience, it is incredibly frustrating that his debut will be delayed for at least another month.
This news compounds an already difficult situation in the attacking department for Eddie Howe.
The club has already had to deal with the high-profile departure of Alexander Isak and now another key offensive player, Jacob Ramsey, is also ruled out for a similar period with an ankle issue.
Wissa was brought in from Brentford precisely for his proven Premier League goal-scoring record he netted 20 times in 39 appearances last season and to provide a reliable option alongside Woltemade.
His absence now forces Howe to get creative with his limited resources. The responsibility will fall even more heavily on the shoulders of Nick Woltemade to lead the line consistently.
Behind him, the options are thin. Young striker William Osula, who saw a potential move away collapse on deadline day, may now be called upon to deputize more than initially planned.
There is also the possibility that once he returns from suspension, a versatile forward like Anthony Gordon could be used in a more central role if needed.
For a manager who prides himself on preparation and structure, these early-season injury problems are a tough test.
It will require careful management of the available players and a need for others to step up and fill the void. The win against Wolves proved the team has the spirit and the quality to win games.
Now, they will need to show their depth and resilience to navigate through this challenging period without two important new signings.
