Malick Thiaw admitted he always knew patience would be needed after swapping AC Milan for Newcastle United this summer, but the German defender was thrilled to finally make his full Premier League debut in Sunday’s goalless draw at Bournemouth.
With Fabian Schär ruled out and Eddie Howe switching to a back three, Thiaw and Sven Botman were both handed their first league starts of the season. The pair helped deliver Newcastle’s fourth clean sheet in five matches, with Howe describing the 24-year-old as “an outstanding player” after the game.
“I had to wait, but that’s normal”
Before the trip to the Vitality Stadium, Thiaw had managed just nine minutes of action in the opening four league games, with Schär and Dan Burn established as Howe’s preferred centre-back duo. The Germany international, however, insisted he always expected a gradual introduction.
“I was really happy to play, from the start as well,” Thiaw said. “I had to wait a bit but that’s a normal thing when you join a team. You have to adapt to the tactics, what the coach wants, how the team plays. I tried my best.”
Although Newcastle struggled to create clear chances in attack, Thiaw felt the performance laid solid foundations. “It was a tough game but I think we did really well. Of course, there are things we can improve, but against Bournemouth it’s always difficult. I’m happy we didn’t concede — we defended really well.”
Penalty appeals and controversy
The visitors believed they should have had a second-half penalty when Nick Woltemade went down under pressure from Bafodé Diakité, while Thiaw himself was caught up in late controversy. Already on a yellow card, he fouled Ryan Christie near the edge of the box but escaped a second caution, much to the frustration of Cherries boss Andoni Iraola.
“It’s a clear second yellow,” Iraola said. “The Newcastle bench decided to take him out. I don’t know if it would have made a difference because there wasn’t much time left.”
Eyes on the cup
Newcastle now turn their attention to the Carabao Cup, where they host Bradford City at St James’ Park on Wednesday.
Since his arrival, Thiaw has been impressed by the passion of the club’s supporters. “The fans have been amazing. I’ve never seen anything like it. The atmosphere is really strong and we try to give them the best. Hopefully in the next league game we can give them three points. I’ll be trying to improve every game.”