Amar Dedić wins Newcastle’s Player of the Month award

Amar Dedić has been named Newcastle United’s KNOX Player of the Month for August after an impressive start to life on Tyneside.

The Bosnian international received 47% of the supporters’ vote, taking the first award of the season following his performances against Liverpool, West Brom and Tottenham.

Dedić helped Newcastle take four points from their opening two Premier League games and progress in the Carabao Cup, providing three assists across his first three appearances.

Dedić rewarded for August impact

The right-back joined from Benfica in August, signing a five-year deal and reuniting with Matthias Jaissle after previously playing under him at Liefering and Red Bull Salzburg.

He went straight into the starting line-up against Liverpool before contributing to victories over West Brom and Spurs.

Jaissle praised the defender’s adaptation before the Bournemouth game:

“Amar has been exceptional so far. I'm really pleased with how fast he has adapted to the league, team and the playing style.”

The award comes with Dedić currently sidelined. Jaissle has confirmed he will miss Saturday’s visit of Hull City, following Newcastle’s 4-1 defeat at Leeds on Monday.

Signing of the season?

I was sceptical about us bringing in a right-back who the manager knew so well. It felt like an uninspired, slightly lazy transfer, going back for a familiar face. But Dedić has already made me reconsider. He’s started absolutely brilliantly and looks a quality addition.

Three assists in his first three games speaks for itself, and the understanding with Elanga down the right has been particularly encouraging. The familiarity with Jaissle’s football appears to have helped him settle quickly.

It’s early days, and Leeds was a reminder that this new side has plenty to work on. Even so, I can see Dedić becoming one of the signings of the season if he builds on that opening month.

For now, getting him fit again is the priority. He’s already shown he can make a real difference.