Howe drops Nick Woltemade hint in update on £69m signing ahead of Wolves clash

Eddie Howe has been back speaking to the media this morning after the first international break of the season.

The press conference brought some bad news, confirming injury blows for Yoane Wissa and Jacob Ramsey, but the boss soon spoke about another big summer signing in Nick Woltemade.

With Wissa ruled out, Anthony Gordon suspended and Will Osula seemingly unlikely to start again, the £69m German may need to step straight into the starting 11 when we face Wolves tomorrow.

But what did Howe have to say about the German international? Here are some of the highlights, covering how he's got on in training, praise for his character and a hint on Howe's willingness to throw an overseas signing straight into his side:

On Woltemade's first week in training, Howe said: "He's fine [for Wolves]. He's trained well and we're really pleased with how he's looked in the first couple of days.

"Big change for him, big opportunity for him. He's got a great nature, a great character. He's very calm and he's gone straight into our training and not looked out of place. He's shown his qualities. We're really pleased with how he's settled in."

Asked if Woltemade could start tomorrow, Howe hinted that he has no problem playing a new signing immediately if the player is fit, in form and needed:

"We always view it individually", he said. "It all depends on your need, their fitness and their form. I have no hesitation playing new players."

"It's a difficult league to come into and instantly feel at ease. But some players have done that and we hope Nick can. But it's worth remembering that Alex (Isak) didn't play every game at the start and was bedded in with Callum (Wilson)."

On Nick's character, Howe added: “What you see is what you get with Nick! Laid back, funny, great sense of humour. Very warm person.

"He spoke really well about wanting to help the team. I’ve seen the pictures of him out and about which is great because he needs to feel at home!”

Howe also talked up the potential to play Woltemade and Wissa together at some stage, much like Isak and Wilson a few seasons ago, but played down the idea of ripping up his current system anytime soon to accommodate both.