Alexander Isak reminded everyone of his class during Newcastle United’s 5-1 win over Aston Villa.
The Magpies kicked off the 2023/24 Premier League season in emphatic fashion. Villa have been tipped to have a really good campaign, yet Eddie Howe‘s team brushed them aside with ease.
The result means Newcastle are currently top of the league on goal difference, and it was largely made possible by Isak’s efforts in front of goal.
He got the nod to start ahead of Callum Wilson, and justified Howe’s decision with a goal in each half.
His first put Newcastle back in front after Moussa Diaby’s equaliser, and was made possible by a lunging pass from Sven Botman.
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As for the second, it was all about Isak. Anthony Gordon’s through ball needed a bit more weight on it, but a mistake from Villa defender Ezri Konsa gave Isak an opportunity.
The 23-year-old seized it with both hands, cleverly dinking the ball over Emi Martinez to extend Newcastle’s lead. It was glorious from Isak, who was running away in celebration before the ball even hit the back of the net.
Alexander Isak very happy with ‘cheeky’ goal against Aston Villa
After the game, Isak spoke to NUFC TV. He discussed his second goal against Aston Villa, and admitted that it was a rather ‘cheeky’ finish.
“The second one was a bit more of a cheeky one,” he said.
“Calm. Collected. Chipped it.
“Obviously it was great to win the ball there and put it in the back of the net, in front of that side as well is always a bit special.”
Special finish from Isak in front of the Gallowgate
While his first goal was pure instinct, the second was absolute class. It certainly was cheeky from Isak, but he had the confidence to execute it.
It already looks like it is going to be a really special season for the club record signing, who relished scoring in front of the Gallowgate.
Whether it is in front of the Gallowgate or the Leazes, home or away, this has the makings of a brilliant campaign for Isak. He did well last time, netting 10 goals in a debut year that was hindered by injury.
Now he is fully fit, and his hit the ground running. Last season he was compared to Thierry Henry, and it is easy to understood why with goals like his second against Aston Villa.