Jaissle explains Newcastle pull as Nico González pushes for Tottenham debut

Matthias Jaissle believes Newcastle United’s history, supporters and ambitious style of football give the club the necessary ingredients to attract leading players, pointing to new signing Nico González as the latest example.

González has arrived as one of Newcastle’s biggest additions of the summer and could make his debut against Tottenham Hotspur this weekend after impressing Jaissle during his first training session.

The midfielder arrives with considerable responsibility following the departures of Bruno Guimarães and Sandro Tonali, but Jaissle believes Newcastle’s project helped convince him that St James’ Park was the right destination.

Asked what persuaded González to make the move, Jaissle highlighted several aspects of Newcastle's identity and future plans.

“With that fan base, with that history, this is a special club,” the Newcastle head coach said.

“We have a clear idea how we want to play football, we are brave in our approach, how we are targeting the future.”

Jaissle believes that combination ultimately convinced the Spaniard.

“I think all these aspects were influencing him in a positive way, so that he was finally convinced to join us.”

It is an encouraging sign for Newcastle as they attempt to reshape their midfield following significant departures this summer.

González has already completed his first training session with his new teammates and appears to have made an immediate impression.

Jaissle described the midfielder as looking “sharp” and confirmed he is an option to feature against Tottenham on Saturday.

That potentially gives Newcastle supporters an early opportunity to see their marquee summer arrival in action.

The expectations surrounding González will be significant following the exits of Guimarães and Tonali, two players who had major roles in Newcastle's midfield.

Saturday's trip to north London will also bring Newcastle face-to-face with former midfielder Tonali.

Jaissle was asked whether Newcastle's travelling supporters should give the Italian the same sort of reception Alexander Isak received when he returned to St James' Park with Liverpool.

The German smiled at the suggestion but instead encouraged supporters to concentrate their energy on Newcastle.

“I would love that we have many, many supporters in London supporting us, that’s the most important thing, focussing on our lads, bringing that energy on the pitch.”

Jaissle believes that backing has already played an important role in Newcastle's performances against Liverpool and in their midweek cup fixture.

Newcastle travel to Tottenham on Saturday, when González could make his first appearance for the club.

The match will also provide an early test of Newcastle's rebuilt midfield and an intriguing reunion with Tonali, but Jaissle wants the focus firmly on his new-look side as they search for their first Premier League victory of the season.