Eddie Howe names the best thing about William Osula after Newcastle United statement

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Newcastle United did not strengthen their first-team last summer.

In fact, Newcastle haven’t really strengthened the starting eleven available to Eddie Howe since the summer of 2023.

Still, perhaps some of their signings can be something a slow burn.

Lewis Hall initially struggled for Newcastle but that is no longer the case. Hall is now a key player under Howe, having developed at a fairly rapid pace of late.

One day, the same may be said of William Osula. While the forward still has a lot to prove, some of the signs have been promising.

Osula was hailed for his performance as Newcastle beat Birmingham in the FA Cup, having provided two assists in the 3-2 victory.

After the game, Howe was effusive in his praise of the former Sheffield United star.

Eddie Howe makes claim about William Osula after Newcastle’s win over Birmingham

Howe appeared to have been very impressed with Osula’s speed, as well as his ability to play across the front line.

A striker by trade, the 21-year-old operated on the right against Birmingham and certainly impressed, so perhaps he’s an option to consider there going forward.

 “I thought Will was a real outlet for us,” Howe said (via The Northern Echo). “His pace, strength and directness were key for us in that first half, finding our way back into the game.

“He’s still got some areas of his game that need development, but he’s certainly moving in the right direction and I thought he was unlucky not to score.

“I think he can play any of the front three positions. I think anything that showcases his pace, I think that’s his best asset. You saw that with his direct running.

“I think he’s got goals in him, I think he’s a natural goal scorer. There’s a few rough edges we need to improve, keep working and developing him, but he’s a massive player for us now.”

Clearly, the Premier League is a different beast but it’s certainly food for thought for the Newcastle United manager.

William Osula makes Newcastle United statement in FA Cup

Newcastle did not replace Miguel Almiron in January, leaving Jacob Murphy as their only genuine option on the right hand side of the attack.

While not to say Osula should suddenly be thrust into a regular starting berth, he did make a statement to Howe.

Indeed, the Dane provided two assists, had the most shots of any Newcastle player, while also providing the highest number of key passes.

Hopefully, that’s a sign of things to come. Osula could yet play a big role this season.