Newcastle's Nick Woltemade powers on as Eddie Howe influence sparks Germany selection

The twenty-three-year-old forward has become a regular for both club and country in recent months, helped by injuries to senior Germany attackers such as Kai Havertz and Niclas Fullkrug, which have pushed him into a heavy run of matches.

With Nico Schlotterbeck ruled out through a foot injury, Malick Thiaw was expected to line up in central defense as Germany aimed to strengthen their qualifying position.

Speaking to the German FA's official media, Woltemade reflected on how working under Eddie Howe at Newcastle has sharpened every part of his game.

"The biggest difference in the Premier League is the intensity and physicality, that took some getting used to," he said. "In the first few games I was getting cramp quite regularly. But now my game has become more intense.

"I can sprint more, press more effectively and contribute better defensively. It has really improved my overall game."

Despite his growing importance, Woltemade insisted he remains a calm presence rather than a loud dressing-room figure.

"I'm quite a relaxed player on the pitch," he said. "I try to focus on my own game. I've played every match, but I'm not the kind of guy who gives big motivational speeches. I prefer to motivate people one-on-one and make sure everyone feels good. I'm pretty easy to get along with."

Looking ahead to the challenge posed by Luxembourg, Woltemade stressed the need for collective discipline and attacking courage.

"We want to defend and attack as a unit, creativity will be key," he said. "We have got players who can create danger, who understand space and have good movement in behind. We've been solid defensively in recent matches.

"It would be the perfect time to show some bravery in attack again and find the back of the net."

Germany enter the fixture confident but aware that a controlled performance would be essential, and Woltemade's continued progression under Howe remained central to their plans.