This 'quiet, unassuming' player has transformed Newcastle United

The defender, signed on loan from Eintracht Frankfurt, impressed again in Saturday’s 2-1 win over Bournemouth at St James's Park.

“Quiet and unassuming” Willems, 25, has quickly developed a good understanding with fellow summer signing Allan Saint-Maximin, a louder character off the pitch.

Asked about the pair, head coach Bruce said: “Jetro, he’s different (to Saint-Maximin). He’s quiet, unassuming. (They are) totally different characters. Technically, he played for Holland when he was 18, so he has something about him. I spoke to Ronald Koeman in the summer about him, and it was all positive. It’s given him a new lease of life. He’s enjoying the Premier league, and that’s vitally important to get better.”

Willems – who has put his injury problems behind him – has been tipped for a recalled to the Holland squad.