Sean Steur opens up on Eddie Howe exit and Newcastle United’s new era under Matthias Jaissle
Sean Steur has revealed that Eddie Howe’s departure from Newcastle United came as a major surprise, particularly because the midfielder had only arrived at St James’ Park a matter of weeks earlier.
The 18-year-old joined Newcastle from Ajax’s academy in a deal worth around £20 million and had been brought in with Howe playing an important role in the decision to sign him. However, just 22 days after Steur completed his move, Howe unexpectedly left the club, creating an uncertain situation for the young Dutchman.
Despite the sudden change, Steur has quickly settled into life under new head coach Matthias Jaissle. The German has shown considerable faith in the teenager, handing him a starting role in Newcastle’s opening Premier League fixture against Liverpool.
Steur endured a difficult afternoon during Newcastle’s defeat at Leeds, but he responded impressively in the following game, helping the Magpies secure a 2-1 victory over Hull City.
His progress has also earned international recognition, with Steur receiving his first call-up to the Netherlands Under-21 squad.
Steur describes Howe’s departure as a surprise
Speaking to Dutch publication AD, Steur admitted that Howe’s exit was unexpected.
“That was a surprise for everyone,” he said.
However, the youngster insists he has quickly adapted to Jaissle’s methods and feels confident working under the new Newcastle boss.
“He is also a very good coach and a good person. He gives me a lot of confidence. I was never really worried.”
Steur settling into life on Tyneside
The Newcastle midfielder also explained how quickly he managed to adjust to his new surroundings after moving to England.
Steur revealed that he has developed a strong relationship with Sven Botman, while the rest of the squad also helped him feel at home.
“I have a good bond with Sven, but everyone was good to me,” he explained. “Within a week, I had a home. That helps enormously.”
His new home is around a 20-minute drive from Newcastle’s training ground and is located in an area where several other players live.
“It was the first one that became available. I said, ‘Fine, I’ll move in there.’”
Jaissle impressed by Steur’s rapid progress
Jaissle has been impressed by the youngster’s performances and believes Steur has already shown qualities beyond his years.
After Newcastle’s win over Hull, the manager praised the midfielder’s response following a difficult performance at Leeds and confirmed that Steur is expected to feature again when Newcastle return to action against Coventry City after the international break.
“We gave him a lot of support over the past week,” Jaissle said.
“He was fantastic. It is what you would expect from an experienced player, but he is still so young. It is really not normal.”
Jaissle also stressed that Newcastle must manage Steur’s development carefully as he continues adapting to the demands of English football.
“He will definitely play again in the next match, but we also have to be careful. He still has to adapt to the league. That is the next step.”
“A surprise for everyone’ – sean steur delivers honest verdict on eddie howe’s newcastle departure
