Matthias Jaissle says his criticism of Newcastle’s players was lost in translation and has clarified that long balls are not forbidden under his management.
The head coach also believes that his squad understands what is being asked of them, although he says his door remains open to any player seeking clarity over his instructions.
In the wake of Monday’s 1-0 home defeat by Everton, Jaissle said that the players had failed to follow his instruction and bemoaned their use of long balls when the plan was to keep it on the floor.
Asked if those comments had been addressed with the squad this week, Jaissle said: ‘I don’t know if it’s a misinterpretation or a language barrier, but there is an element of that when I explained that in the press conference.
‘But it is indeed (something) we address, because we talked sometimes about the no-risk zone, where we had previously critical-ball losses leading to goals. Of course, if there is a clear risk for ball loss, then I prefer playing a long ball to our striker and protecting the ball and develop the game from there.
‘It (my comments) are not to point any fingers, not at all. Sometimes you are willing to do something, but on that day it just did not work and you make the wrong decisions. It comes also with confidence.
Matthias Jaissle, pictured giving instructions during Newcastle’s defeat by Everton, has insisted long balls are not banned
‘If you have scenarios where you can find easily your team-mate on the ground and we build up from there with our patterns, then you should for sure also prefer that.
‘But it’s not easy, it’s easier said from outside. If the confidence is missing, then you prefer to be really safe and shooting maybe even more the long ball.’
Daily Mail Sport was told this week that some players are ‘confused’ by exactly what it is Jaissle wants from them, but the head coach said: ‘The fundamental thing is that we can count on unity and togetherness.
‘The door is always open if ever there is anything unclear. If you see the training then I’m pretty sure everyone understands and is fully committed. There was never a question, at least I’m not aware of it.
‘It’s important we listen to the players. If there is anything unclear, they will drop in.’
Meanwhile, Jaissle says he retains the support of the club’s hierarchy after a run of four defeats in five matches.
‘The nice part is that I got even more the feeling from within the club how committed they are (this week),’ he said.
‘That just shows me that everyone believes in the long-term project and that everyone is also aware and realistic about the journey and where we are right now.’
