Newcastle United want to become one of the best clubs in the world, and to do that you need the best players.
Fortunately for Eddie Howe, he already believes he has that.
Some of the players that have arrived at Newcastle United truly are outstanding, with Sean Longstaff calling the likes of Bruno Guimaraes and Alexander Isak world class.
They have been game-changers for the club, and are still capable of improving even further.
Eddie Howe sets Alexander Isak a challenge
Howe certainly believes that is the case for Alexander Isak, who has scored four goals in his previous four games for Newcastle.
In the eyes of the Newcastle United manager, Isak is up there with the best strikers in world football today, and believes the Sweden international has the potential to hit even greater heights.
Ahead of Newcastle’s game against West Ham on Monday, Howe was asked about Isak’s form and where he ranks alongside the game’s elite.
“I think he’s building momentum into his season,” he said.
“He’s scored some big goals of late for us. His general performances have continued to improve. He’s gone away for Sweden and played very well. I’m delighted with how he’s looked on international duty to continue that good form.
“Being a striker, having not been one myself but from my experience, is all about confidence and how you feel.
“Alex has got undoubted qualities. I would put him right up there in terms of world strikers currently playing. I feel his potential is great. He can really go and prove himself as one of the world’s best. That would be my target if I was him, without putting pressure on him.”
Newcastle United must match Alexander Isak’s ability
Eddie Howe is right to have confidence in Isak. He is a special striker, and that is summed up by the amount and quality of goals he has scored since becoming Newcastle’s most expensive signing ever.
He is absolutely pivotal to the Toon project, so much so that Isak is the last player who Howe would want to sell.
However, that will be dependent on Newcastle United matching Isak’s ability. If he continues to grow and really establishes himself as one of the best strikers in the world, it is pivotal that Newcastle are competing at a level that compliments that ability.
Simply put, Newcastle need to be competing for trophies and playing in the Champions League.
There is uncertainty over Isak’s future after contract talks stalled, but the most decisive factor over whether he stays or goes in 2025 will be whether Newcastle can finish in the top four.
If Newcastle can get back into the Champions League and show that they are progressing then it is much more likely that Isak will remain at St James’ Park. Fingers crossed that happens, as it truly is a joy to watch Isak don those famous black and white stripes.
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