According to the Chronicle’s Mark Douglas, Jetro Willems has found Steve Bruce’s approach ‘liberating’ – and has ‘lost weight and added muscle’ since arriving at St James’ Park.
The Dutchman has exceeded all expectations since arriving on loan back in August, not only showing his quality in attack but often defending admirably too.
Some felt he looked slightly overweight when he appeared for the first time during our opening day defeat to Arsenal, however the 25-year-old has clearly worked on his physique and fitness over the past few months.
Here’s a snippet from his latest piece for the Chronicle:
Off-the-field he is enjoying life on Tyneside: he’s settled into the city and the Premier League quickly and despite warnings about the physical demands of England’s top tier he has not struggled.
“He’s lost weight and added muscle in a tailored training programme and has found the approach of Steve Bruce “liberating” according to those close to him.”
A lot of credit must go to the player himself, with him clearly doing all he can (both on and off the pitch) to grasp the chance offered to him by NUFC, however it’s great to hear the players are responding well to Steve Bruce.
I feared certain players would feel less motivated when Benitez left and Bruce walked in, but it seems the group are really buying into the new boss’ approach – and long may it last.
As for Willems, hopefully he can keep up the good work and make the most of his improved fitness levels over the festive period – especially when we’ll need him to play just about every game in Matt Ritchie’s continued absence!