Howe hails Osula's rise while Maresca signals Blues rotation

NEWCASTLE manager Eddie Howe on Tuesday backed William Osula to become “the complete package’, expressing his relief that the striker did not leave the club on deadline day.

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Eintracht Frankfurt were reportedly poised to complete a move for the 22-year-old in the transfer window, but Newcastle called off talks.

Osula has enjoyed more game time than expected this season, largely as a substitute, after big-money signing Yoane Wissa suffered a knee injury on international duty.

“Obviously, it didn’t happen and much to our relief it didn't happen because Yoane picked up an injury and Will is vitally important,’ Howe said, when asked how close Osula came to leaving St James’ Park.

“We believe in his talent. He's got speed - I think you could see that when he came on the pitch the other day - he’s quick, he’s athletic. But also I think what he’s added just through the continued attitude to his training, a lot better know-how, nous in terms of how to manage game situations.