Newcastle fans laud Matthias Jaissle's first major decision after Valencia win as Anthony Elanga update issued following horror tackle

Newcastle head coach Matthias Jaissle has issued an update on Anthony Elanga’s fitness while also being praised by Magpies fans for his first major decision since being appointed.

The German’s Newcastle tenure got off to a winning start in Spain, with Yoane Wissa’s brace cancelling out Filip Ugrinic’s stunning opener.

Jaissle got to watch his new players up close for the first time, with new signings Lukas Hornicek, Aladji Bamba, Bazoumana Toure and Sean Steur all getting a run-out.

Joelinton played over half an hour despite links with a potential move to Saudi Arabia, with Nick Woltemade, Will Osula, Harvey Barnes, Sven Botman and Jacob Murphy also featuring.

Despite the solid showing, the fixture was overshadowed by a horror challenge from Valencia left-back Jose Gaya, which left Anthony Elanga hurt and needing to be stretchered off the pitch.

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Newcastle supporters feared the worst. However, Jaissle issued a positive update on the Sweden international’s condition after the match.

"It seems to be not bad, so we are pleased. I hope it's true, then he can start again next week,” Jaissle said.

The 38-year-old added: "Of course I was in fear [it was a serious injury], definitely, but now I'm more relaxed as the medical department is showing almost green.”

He then turned his attention to his side’s overall performance, explaining: “Winning games always helps to gain confidence.

"We also knew that we had a hard week behind us.

"The players did well and there was a huge commitment to see in each session, so they really deserve two days off and then we start again."

Newcastle fans react to captaincy call

Meanwhile, it appears that Jaissle has decided that German centre-back Malick Thiaw will be the man to replace Bruno Guimaraes as captain, despite the defender entering just his second season at St James’ Park.

Thiaw, who arrived from AC Milan last summer, played 35 of Newcastle’s 38 Premier League matches last term, scoring four goals. He also made 11 Champions League appearances and five in the Carabao Cup.

Fans appeared pleased with Jaissle’s decision to hand him the captaincy, taking to social media to voice their thoughts.

One said: “No surprise to see Malick Thiaw as captain. All footage from training showed Jaissle massively taking to him. German link will only have helped.”

Another added: “I really like Malick Thiaw as the captain! Seems like he’s stood up and taken leadership since Bruno left! Brilliant. Reminds me of when Lascelles did it years ago.”

A third claimed: “A new era for Newcastle United. It’s a new dawn and Newcastle will benefit from such a change as they work to continue their impressive dominance in England under Matthias Jaissle. Being captain is now a huge responsibility for Malick Thiaw.”

While a fourth commented: “Bruno leaves and Thiaw gets the armband within hours. That feels like more than just a friendly-game decision.”

Newcastle get their Premier League campaign underway at home against Liverpool on August 23.