Jetro Willems comments on his future after bright start at Newcastle

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Newcastle United defender Jetro Willems has played down early talk of turning his move to St. James’ Park permanent.

The Dutchman has made an impressive start to life with the Magpies following his summer loan from Eintracht Frankfurt.

Willems is a regular in the side now after taking full advantage of the injury sustained by Matt Ritchie in August.

Fans have really taken to his marauding style at left wing-back, and some have already been wondering about his chances of joining the club permanently.

While Willems has enjoyed his experience so far, he is not yet thinking about that.

He said at the Newcastle United Foundation’s United as One annual dinner (Chronicle): “It is not a big deal now. We are in November. It is the 11th game and we have a long time to go and I don’t want to think about it. It is not my priority. Of course at the end of the season but now I just want to enjoy football and get some wins.”

Interestingly, Willems added that his decision to join United was influenced by a former Magpies cult hero.

“Before I came, I had other options. I asked him [Gini Wijnaldum] and he said go to Newcastle, great club and you will enjoy it, not only the football but the life outside of it.”

Willems’ compatriot Wijnaldum, now of Liverpool of course, became a hugely popular figure at the club during his one and only season at St. James’.

TBR’s view – Plenty of time

There is still so much football left to be played this season, and fans don’t need to be worrying about Willems just yet.

He has certainly impressed but it is still early doors, and it’s important for the club to let the player just get on rather than putting pressure on for him to sign permanently.