Former Newcastle star hints at Alexander Isak problem after ‘big moment’ vs Brighton

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Newcastle United have now gone four Premier League games without a win.

It was a disappointing afternoon for Newcastle United on Saturday after losing 1-0 to Brighton at St James’ Park.

Newcastle started strong and pinned the visitors back but were unable to take advantage after missing a handful of clear-cut chances.

Eddie Howe‘s side were made to pay for their poor finishing when Danny Welbeck scored against the run of play to give Brighton a lead.

Newcastle have now dropped down to eighth in the Premier League table and their last league win was against Wolves more than a month ago.

READ MORE: Newcastle United target Tyler Dibling replies to Lewis Miley’s 12-word message after return vs Brighton

Shay Given hints at Alexander Isak problem

Alexander Isak recovered from his injury in time to start for Newcastle against Brighton, but the 25-year-old struggled to make an impact.

Isak did not look sharp against Brighton and frankly he has struggled all season to rediscover the form that saw him score 25 times in 2023/24.

Alan Shearer fumed about Newcastle’s finishing after the full-time whistle, and Isak was at fault for missing big chances that could have salvaged valuable points.

Former Newcastle star Shay Given has now given his verdict on the performance, and he singled out one “big moment” involving Isak which highlighted his lack of form.

Speaking on BBC Match of the Day, Given said: “It was a big moment. Alexander Isak had a huge chance just before they scored, and again, I don’t know what’s wrong with Alexander this year.

“He has scored only one goal this season. It’s a brilliant save from Verbruggen, but I think there’s enough time to go around him maybe and slot it into the empty net.”

Alexander Isak has not had a smooth start to the season

There’s no hiding from the fact that Isak does not look like the same player that scored 25 goals last season, but there are plenty of explanations as to why that may be the case.

Firstly, Isak has only just returned from injury and is lacking match sharpness with his last performance coming in the 3-1 defeat to Fulham.

Secondly, Isak is in talks over a new contract at Newcastle and we have already seen this season the impact that had on Anthony Gordon.

Gordon looked much more like his usual self with a goal against Manchester City after his contract situation had been resolved.

Isak now finds himself in a similar position.