"I don't care" - Matthias Jaissle sends ice-cold message to his Newcastle critics

Matthias Jaissle arrives untested in the Premier League and much to prove, but he's already shown real character and class since his appointment.

The German has an aura about him. At a time when we're missing strong leaders and voices on the pitch, following Kieran Trippier and Bruno Guimaraes' summer exits, we certainly have one off the pitch.

Jaissle has handled the media so well - he's shown class, charisma and clarity - and clips of his communication with the players has also been encouraging, showing his ability to command respect, instruct clearly and build bonds with his new players.

This week, we saw the 38-year-old hold his first press conference before a Premier League game, where one of his responses to the local press was particularly impressive.

Jaissle doesn't care about early naysayers 

Matthias Jaissle's response to those underestimating his Newcastle side this season was cutting in his Thursday afternoon press conference.

Speaking to the media, the boss insisted he 'does not care' about outside noise and negativity created by the media ahead of Sunday's opener:

"I don't know. I don't know how they rank us or how they rank me. To be honest, with all the respect, I don't care.

"It's not something I can influence, the opinion of others. We are good in our approach and we can only focus on what we can influence and that will be the same on this whole journey with this team.

"It's smart from us to avoid the negativity from outside, and there is negativity. You read the newspapers, the media, the social media in particular. So for us, the job is to focus on what we can influence.

"For sure there is a gap to reach our full potential. We are aware of that. That's normal in that stage of the season that you cannot be 100%, especially when you consider the circumstances around."

Confident Jaissle will ruffle feathers

I can already see opposition fans and managers taking issue with Jaissle's confidence and pitch-side presence, which we'll soon see.

But this is just what Newcastle United need. After a challenging summer that tested fans' faith in the project, we need a strong leader with character and presence.

Discussing our mindset heading into the season and what he's asking of supporters, Jaissle added:

 “It’s all about belief. Be consistent in the approach and how you support us. 

"I’m a big fan of them from what I’ve seen already and I will be an even bigger fan when I feel it on Sunday. 

"The togetherness is the biggest message and benefit for this season.”

Let's get behind the lads and our new boss this Sunday!