Newcastle United forward William Osula is certainly an interesting figure.
Popular amongst the fanbase, Newcastle United are yet to really see the best of Osula.
Admittedly for the 21-year-old, it’s been difficult.
Eddie Howe has handed the former Sheffield United youngster only three starts across all competitions and the idea of seeing him feature more regularly this season seems unlikely, given what’s at stake in the final four games of the Premier League campaign.
However, Osula scored his first Premier League goal on Saturday as Newcastle beat Ipswich 3-0. Indeed, Howe hopes Osula’s goal can be a turning point for him, having struggled to wholly convince during his admittedly brief cameos this season.
Still, his future may not be as a striker.
Eddie Howe hints at Will Osula position change for Newcastle United
According to Transfermarkt’s positional data, 35 of Osula’s 38 career appearances have come as a central striker.
However, he was brought on for Harvey Barnes as a right-wing option on Saturday.
Howe admitted the Dane impressed him in what is not his natural role when speaking after the game.
| Striker | Left-winger | Right-winger |
| 35 | 2 | 1 |
“We think he’s improved,” said the Newcastle United manager.
“But obviously the acid test will be when he performs on the pitch and in the team. And today I thought he was excellent.
“He came on at right wing, which is a totally different position. I know it’s obvious, but it’s a totally different position and different skill set to playing as a nine.
“But I thought he looked a real threat. He looked quick and athletic. And the goal I thought was an outstanding finish. He’s 6’3″, verging on 6’4″. So he needs to be a physical presence. He needs to use his aerial skills. Delighted that he got his first Premier League goal.”
Is William Osula leaving Newcastle United this summer?
That has yet to have been decided it seems.
Reports have suggested Osula could leave Newcastle on loan at the end of the season but, obviously, there has been no confirmation of that just yet.
Newcastle value Osula’s potential behind the scenes and they do have an opening at right-wing, having failed to sign a replacement for Miguel Almiron in January.
Still, and while it’s promising to see him impress in that position, it’s tough to imagine a scenario in which Osula acts as first reserve for Jacob Murphy, who currently starts in the role.
Clearly, Newcastle see something in Osula but a loan move may be a necessary step to continue his development, given the competition for places in their squad.
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