Callum Wilson is getting better with age and experience - according to Eddie Howe.
The number 9 has been a star man for Newcastle this season, before and after Howe's arrival, with six goals to his name so far.
Wilson has 16 strikes in just 31 starts at United since signing from AFC Bournemouth for what is looking like a bargain £20million price tag.
Howe knows he must get the balance right for Wilson after the striker suffered injury woes last season going into the winter.
New Toon chief Howe threw the captain's armband to Wilson recently when Jamaal Lascelles was banned and said: "He seems very stable and focused and his leadership qualities have improved.
"Callum is a big character in the dressing room and the group.
"He always had a very good outlook on life and football when I worked with him previously at Bournemouth.
"He's a really positive guy who always believed he could score and contribute to the team.
"But I guess what am I saying with his leadership in other surroundings he tries to boost other people rather than focusing solely on himself.
"I'm pleased with him.
"He's given a lot to the club.
"He's taken the burden of the number 9 and it's not easy to do.
"Callum has made it his own and credit to him for that."
