Yoane Wissa reveals how Matthias Jaissle has revived his Newcastle career

Yoane Wissa has credited Matthias Jaissle with restoring his confidence at Newcastle United after a difficult first season at St James’ Park.

The 30-year-old endured a nightmare start following his move to Newcastle, suffering a knee injury on international duty before he had even trained with his new teammates.

Wissa struggled to recover his rhythm and fitness afterwards, finishing his debut Premier League campaign with just one goal.

Now, however, the striker believes life under Jaissle has given him the platform to finally show Newcastle supporters what he can do.

Wissa recently described Jaissle as Newcastle’s best signing of the summer following the 2-0 victory over Tottenham.

Their relationship got off to an unusual start, with Jaissle immediately comparing Wissa to former Brentford teammate Ivan Toney, whom the German previously coached at Al-Ahli.

“He didn't even say hello to me!” Wissa told Sky Sports. “He said, ‘Have we got Ivan?’ So that's how it starts.”

More importantly, Jaissle quickly outlined exactly what he expected from the striker.

“He gives me a lot of confidence,” Wissa explained. “He wants me to be a leader of the team and he wants me to run hard for him. So that's what I'm trying to do.”

Wissa also revealed he has agreed a private season-long bet with his Newcastle manager.

The striker refused to disclose his target but explained that setting personal objectives helps keep him motivated even if he eventually surpasses them.

Wissa is particularly determined to deliver after his family also endured the frustrations of his injury-hit debut campaign.

“I want to just do work for my family because last season was tough for them also in the background,” he said.

Repaying the Newcastle supporters is another major motivation.

Wissa admitted he was “angry” and “sad” about being unable to make an immediate impact last season, particularly because he already understood how much Newcastle supporters value players who work relentlessly for the shirt.

“This season, I prepared myself to just run on the pitch to show them how much I'm so happy to be here,” he said.

Wissa is now determined to make up for lost time and establish himself as a leader in Jaissle’s new-look Newcastle side.

With his injury problems behind him and Jaissle placing significant trust in him, Wissa now has an opportunity to properly restart his Newcastle career. His work rate and leadership are clearly important to the new manager, but adding consistent goals will ultimately determine how successful that revival becomes.