Newcastle United are struggling to scale the heights they managed last season.
Whether or not the fatigue the players have suffered as a result of the injury crisis decimating Eddie Howe’s squad is the sole reason for that is up for debate of course.
Still, there is little doubt that hasn’t helped, as the likes of Jurgen Klopp have noted.
It has made for a hugely frustrating season, one that looks increasingly likely to see Newcastle finish outside of the top four.
In the long-term, however, things are positive. Yes, FFP problems might be frustrating right now but there is reportedly a plan from PIF to keep bringing money into the club through commercial sponsorship deals. That, in theory, at least should help.
Indeed, Howe also has a young squad at his disposal. According to Transfermarkt data, only six of those regularly used in the first-team are over 30 and one of those is goalkeeper Nick Pope, who plays in a position where age is less of an issue.
Over time, those under Howe’s watch should improve.
One of those is Alexander Isak.
Alexander Isak: Eddie Howe says Newcastle star can do “incredible things”
Speaking after Saturday’s defeat to Manchester City, Howe predicted major things for Isak going forward.
The Swede had already been praised for his performance having scored an excellent goal to make it 1-1 but Howe would later go further into detail about the potential the striker has.
“The goal was very reminiscent of Alan [Shearer], really,” he said (via Beanyman Sports on YouTube).
“The touch, the finish that he delivered. He can go on, I think, to achieve incredible things in his career. I think he’s got so much more to offer.”
Alexander Isak: Newcastle can’t sell star
At some point, a prized asset may well have to go if Newcastle are going to raise room to work in while under FFP restrictions.
While none of Isak, Bruno Guimaraes or Sven Botman would be a welcome sale at St James’ Park, selling the 24-year-old would be a major mistake.
A regular source of goals at the elite level, quite how much Newcastle would have to spend to replace him boggles the mind.
According to reports earlier this week, the club have decided it will be Guimaraes who goes.
Though not ideal, at least it seems Isak will be sticking around…
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