Newcastle United has been on a roll, thanks to their recordbreaking signing, Alexander Isak. The Swedish forward has been making headlines since joining the club for a whopping £60 million, and his performances have vindicated the board’s calculated gamble. His matchwinning performances against Wolverhampton Wanderers and Nottingham Forest demonstrated his talent and made his price tag seem less inflated.
Isak compared to young Thierry Henry
Newcastle’s coaching staff has compared Isak to a young Thierry Henry, and why not? The youngster has usurped Callum Wilson as the first-choice striker and has been scoring at a fast rate in the Premier League. With athleticism, technical ability, and finishing prowess, Isak is a prime example of a modern forward.
Acquisition of Isak was risky but paying off
The acquisition of Isak was considered a risk due to his disappointing previous season and injury history. But his outstanding debut against Liverpool showcased his X-factor and ability to score goals in better positions. He has demonstrated improvement in his game, including his header against Wolves, which was identified as needing development.
Isak’s sample size may be modest but he scores at an impressive rate
Isak can play anywhere across the front line, but his primary position must be central. His adaptability and cutting edge in front of goal have made him the top scorer among Newcastle forwards in goals, xG, touches in the opposition box, shots, shots on target per 90, and shot conversion rate. Though his sample size may be modest, he is scoring at an impressive rate in the Premier League.
Newcastle United’s crucial week for their hopes of Champions League football
Newcastle United faces three crucial Premier League games in seven days that can make or break their hopes of Champions League football. The games start with Manchester United, followed by West Ham and Brentford.
Newcastle United’s chances against Manchester United
Newcastle United’s chances of winning against Manchester United look good because of their weak defence. The Magpies need to take advantage of Manchester United’s vulnerable defence, and Alexander Isak could be the difference as he is hot at present.
Newcastle’s options on the flanks
Newcastle has many options on the flanks with Murphy, Gordon, Almiron, Joelinton, Saint-Maximin, and Anderson. They need to play at a good tempo and press high to win against Manchester United. The Magpies can take advantage of Manchester United’s incomplete overhaul and win the game.
Winning against Manchester United will boost confidence
Winning against Manchester United will give Newcastle United the confidence to win their next games against West Ham and Brentford. Isak’s emergence as a top-class forward will undoubtedly be a major boost to Newcastle’s hopes of success.
Isak compared to Mo Salah by Alan Shearer
Newcastle legend Alan Shearer has heaped praise on Isak, comparing him to one of the world’s best players, Mo Salah. Shearer described Isak as a “modern forward” in the mould of Mo Salah and Sadio Mane rather than a traditional No.9 like Erling Haaland. Isak’s athleticism and agility on the ball have made him a force to be reckoned with on the pitch.
Shearer highlighted that Isak’s style of play is different from Newcastle’s other star striker, Callum Wilson, who is more of a poacher and goalscorer. Nevertheless, his emergence as a top-class forward will undoubtedly be a major boost to Newcastle United’s hopes of success in the Premier League this season.
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