Newcastle United forward Nick Woltemade has responded to criticism over his recent performances, highlighting a positional change as a key factor behind his reduced goal output.
The Germany international has seen his scoring numbers dip but insists the narrative around his form is unfair.
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Speaking to Suddeutsche Zeitung, Woltemade admitted frustration at how his contributions are being judged despite remaining a regular starter.
“I know people associate me with goals, but you can’t compare a striker’s tally with that of a midfielder playing 50, 60, 70 meters from the opponent’s goal,” he said.
“I’m currently a completely different Nick Woltemade than I was at the start of the season. Right now, I should be judged by how I handle duels or secure space.”
While some fans and pundits have questioned his impact in the final third, his record of 10 goals and five assists in 45 appearances still reflects a solid campaign. However, the forward believes statistics alone do not capture his overall contribution, stressing that his work rate, link-up play, and technical discipline in deeper roles should also be recognised.