Not just Matthias Jaissle - Amar Dedic reveals Newcastle United secret weapon in £30m transfer
Former Benfica right-back Amar Dedic has been a revelation in his first month at Newcastle United.
Amar Dedic has revealed the passion of Newcastle United supporters was a key reason for joining the club.
The 24-year-old has made an immediate impact since arriving from Benfica for £30million last month. Dedic arrived as the first Matthias Jaissle signing, with the duo working together at Red Bull Salzburg.
Unfortunately, a bright start - that saw Dedic named the club’s Player of the Month - has been disrupted by a hamstring problem. He aggravated the injury against Leeds United and missed the 2-1 win over Hull City but is expected to return after the international break.
Bosnia head coach Sergej Barbarez confirmed that the defender will spend three to four weeks on the sidelines. This almost certainly makes Dedic a doubt for the trip to Coventry City when the Premier League resumes on October 12.
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‘I love the passion’ - Amar Dedic
Speaking to the club’s matchday programme, Dedic opened up about how Newcastle fans were instrumental to his decision. He said: "For me, I was always that emotional guy. I love the passion. Everything I do in my life, I want to do it with passion. And I want to know for what (reason) I'm doing it.
“Even if it's football, for the fans, I want to fight for them because I know how many years they support the club. It's just about heart. I want to put my heart every game on the pitch. For me, it's the most important thing. Then other things will come. But for me, this is the point of football, it’s the basics. That’s why I wanted to join because I know how the fans are here.
"As I expected, the Premier League has been very intense so far. For the fans, it's even better to watch. My family have told me that it's crazy to watch (in the stands). They like it and I like it.
"I can feel the respect from the fans and the love. I respect them as well and will give my best for them to put a smile on their face after the game. For me that's the most important thing."
Amar Dedic on Matthias Jaissle
Dedic also discussed how Jaissle’s appointment at Newcastle also played a part. He added: “For sure, adapting it makes it easier because I know the coaches and the head coach. I had them a few years ago.
“I'm used to training with them before. But I wanted to join the club anyway - so with the coach as well it's an extra good thing and positive. In some situations [on the pitch it's good because I know what he wants.
“But I don't think it's the main thing, even if I know him - if you don't adapt here it will be hard for you. It's not the main reason, of course it makes it easier and I know what he wants from you."
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