Eddie Howe will hope that his work on the training ground this week inspires Newcastle United to play better against Fulham.
In terms of points, it has been an excellent start to the season for Newcastle United. But sitting third in the Premier League table with 10 points from four games does not tell the whole story.
In truth, the Magpies have struggled in pretty much every game. Eddie Howe‘s side have been nowhere near their best, and that is why Paul Merson thinks Newcastle will lose against Fulham on Saturday.
Newcastle’s task has been made harder by the news that Alexander Isak is a doubt to face Fulham. He is suffering from a toe injury, which could result in Anthony Gordon playing as a striker at Craven Cottage.
Isak was not spotted in Newcastle training ahead of this weekend’s game.
Newcastle United wonderkid trains with first-team ahead of Fulham clash
But while there has been no appearance from Isak, Newcastle United have included a very exciting teenager in their preparations for Fulham.
The club have released a video of Newcastle training this week to their official YouTube channel, and 17-year-old Leo Shahar can be seen taking part.
The right-back can be seen training alongside the likes of Joelinton, Dan Burn and Alex Murphy, as Howe’s side get set to face the Cottagers in West London.
It is interesting to see Shahar involved, and that is a testament to his potential. Howe has always shown a willingness to give youngsters a chance, particularly in training. If you are good enough, you are old enough.
And at 17, Shahar is rubbing shoulders with Newcastle United’s senior stars.
No need for Shahar to feature for Newcastle United this weekend
However, despite being seen in training, there is surely no chance of him being involved against Fulham on Saturday.
Newcastle have Tino Livramento and Kieran Trippier competing for a place at right-back, while Emil Krafth will also be with the squad. While he is currently acting as centre-back cover, he is primarily a right-back.
But Shahar will be benefitting from these training experiences, and his opportunity will surely come in the future.
Ahead of Saturday, Trippier is pushing to start ahead of Livramento. Trippier made a real difference against Wolves, after coming on in the second half.
However, we have predicted that Livramento will start for Newcastle against Fulham ahead of the 34-year-old.
Receive a digest of our best Newcastle content each week direct to your mailbox
