Yoane Wissa’s career at Newcastle United could soon have lift-off.
Indeed, Wissa could make his Newcastle United debut against Burnley in the Premier League on Saturday, 96 days after he signed for the club from Brentford.
Wissa’s knee injury has so far ruled him out of any action at all since September, while the last time he played a league game was way back in May.
Based on Howe’s comments, do you reckon we’ll see Wissa make his Toon debut vs Burnley?
It seems incredibly unlikely that the 29-year-old will start at St James’ Park but there is a chance he could feature off the bench at least.
Eddie Howe has confirmed that he’s still to make a decision on the DR Congo international but that things were moving in the right direction.
In fact, it seems someone close to the striker is hopeful he can get a run-out against the Clarets.
Yoane Wissa could actually play for Newcastle United against Burnley
According to Sky Sports reporter Keith Downie in a video posted on YouTube, a source close to the forward is hopeful Wissa will be handed a chance on Saturday.
Clearly, much depends on the game. If Newcastle are locked in an intense battle with Scott Parker’s side, Wissa may not be risked given the length of his absence.
Still, if the Magpies are in a good position in the game, one particular source believes Wissa may finally make his debut.
“Will he get off the bench? I’m not too sure,” said Downie.
“I’ve spoken to one person close to Wissa who feels there is a chance he will get a run out, 10 or 15 minutes at the end of the game. Will he get chucked on if the game is close and even? I don’t think so, but if Newcastle are 3-0 or 4-0 up, yes he will get a run out.”
Including Martin Dubravka, there are 12 players who have played for both Newcastle and Burnley! How many do you reckon you can name!
Don’t forget there are two current Newcastle players who were once at Burnley.
Why Yoane Wissa’s debut for Newcastle United is so exciting for fans
Howe was desperate to sign Wissa, with the forward a virtual guarantee of Premier League goals considering his fine record at Brentford.
There is a huge amount of excitement about the striker’s first game. An entirely different profile to Nick Woltemade, he’ll almost certainly give something different to the team.
Though his game is about far more than that, he gives Newcastle the chance to stretch defences, something Woltemade just can’t do.
That’s not a reflection on the German as a player, it’s just not really his game.
Wissa should unlock new doors for Newcastle.