Shola Ameobi Supports Howe During Newcastle’s Struggles, Expresses Confidence in Wissa and Woltemade

The Englishman guided the Magpies to a long-awaited domestic trophy, bringing to an end their 70-year drought by defeating Liverpool 2-1 in last season’s Carabao Cup. Additionally, they secured a commendable fifth place in the league.

However, this season has not gone according to plan for the six-time FA Cup winners, with underwhelming performances across all fronts.

They have suffered five consecutive defeats, including a narrow 1–0 loss to Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium, placing them just eight points clear of the relegation zone.

Despite the team’s poor form and mounting frustration among supporters at St James’ Park, the former Nigeria international, who dedicated 14 years to the club, firmly believes that Howe, formerly of Bournemouth, is the one to steer Newcastle United towards future success.

“We’re a reflection of the entire season; things haven’t been fantastic on the pitch, but that shouldn’t alter our course. Eddie Howe is undoubtedly the best manager for Newcastle United,” he stated.

Newcastle United have also notably squandered a league-high 25 points from winning positions—marking their second-worst single-season record since 2004–05—while managing to earn just three points from losing positions, the joint-lowest in the league.

Many have highlighted Alexander Isak’s summer transfer to Liverpool for a British record fee of £125 million (€144.5m/$169.3m) as a significant factor in the Magpies’ struggles.

Before his departure, the Sweden international netted an impressive 27 goals in all competitions during the 2024–25 season. However, Ameobi does not share this viewpoint, asserting: “No, ultimately, players come and go. Teams will always pursue quality players.”

“The same will hold true this summer. We have talented players that will be sought after by other teams. If you aspire to be a top club, you must learn to navigate this.

“Ultimately, you need to keep working hard, identify new players who can contribute to your progress, and reach your desired goals.”

Ameobi Foresees Bright Times for Wissa & Woltemade

Following Isak’s departure to Anfield, Howe’s squad invested £69 million ($93 million) in Nick Woltemade and £55 million ($74 million) in Yoane Wissa to bolster their attack.

The club’s record signing, Woltemade, began his stint brightly, scoring seven goals in just his first 14 Premier League outings, averaging a goal every 157 minutes with a 27% shot conversion rate.

Unfortunately, he has since gone 16 games without a goal, having spent only 597 minutes on the field during that time and managing just five shots.

Conversely, DR Congo international Wissa has faced injury challenges, restricting his opportunities to leave a mark.

Nevertheless, Ameobi remains optimistic that both players will eventually find their footing.

“Injury has undoubtedly affected Wissa’s campaign. When you’re trying to acclimatise to a new team and then get sidelined for months, it’s difficult to re-establish yourself,” Ameobi noted.

“I believe he is still trying to regain his peak fitness, and Nick is coming from a different background and culture.

“I understand how challenging it is to transition into a squad and to make an immediate impact. He is a talented player, and I am confident he will start to shine as he grows within the team,” he concluded.

Newcastle United will aim to turn around their poor form when they face high-flying Brighton and Hove Albion at home on Sunday.

The Seagulls will be seeking to complete their second Premier League double over the Magpies, having previously done so in the 2020–21 season, following their 2–1 victory in October.

In contrast, Howe’s Newcastle has generally struggled against Brighton, securing only two wins out of their last 17 league clashes (with eight draws and seven defeats), although both triumphs came on home soil.