Newcastle United fans will love what Alexander Isak had on his shin pads in the win against Chelsea

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Alexander Isak made a brilliant gesture during Newcastle United’s 2-0 win against Chelsea.

The scoreline makes it look like it was an easy win for the Magpies, but it was `far from it.

Nicholas Jackson was sent off for Chelsea in the first-half; many would have thought that Newcastle United would kick on and win the game by a sizeable margin. Instead, St James’ Park got nervy and Enzo Maresca’s side pushed forward.

Nick Pope was forced into action on a couple of occasions, making fine saves to maintain Newcastle’s lead before Bruno Guimaraes gave the passionate Geordies another thing to cheer about and secure all three points.

The win moves Eddie Howe’s side up to third in the Premier League table, capitalising on Manchester City’s goalless draw against Southampton on Saturday.

While fans are celebrating the result, it was clear star striker Alexander Isak had other things on his mind going into the clash.

Alexander Isak debuts Champions League shin pads in win vs Chelsea

Isak has been relentless for Newcastle this season, scoring 27 goals and bagging six assists in all competitions.

The Sweden international is one of the main reasons why Newcastle are fighting for Champions League football. His attacking returns are well beyond those that any of his teammates can boast this season.

Newcastle players want to qualify for the Champions League as they believe it is where they belong.

Isak will no doubt agree with that statement, as his goals prove that he deserves to play in Europe’s top competition every year.

Pre-match, a picture of Isak’s shin pads appeared on social media. They had a custom design on with Isak and the Champions League logo alongside the three teams Newcastle played during their run in the competition last season.

Newcastle players think the Chelsea win guarantees Champions League football next season; they are not far off it now.

• Who is Alexander Isak? The striker who burned his Newcastle United reputation to force £125m Liverpool transfer

Alexander Isak puts in muted performance against Chelsea

Newcastle fans are celebrating another win at home in what has been a memorable season.

The Carabao Cup win has guaranteed European football will return to Tyneside next season, but now the players want to make sure they are playing in the best competition possible.

While the likes of Sandro Tonali and Dan Burn shone against Chelsea, Isak found it hard to stamp his authority on the game.

The 25-year-old had opportunities to find the back of the net, but his efforts were scuffed or blazed well over the bar.

However, fans should still be pleased with Isak’s efforts on the counter-attack and his lovely give-and-gos in the first half.

Isak was taken off for Callum Wilson in added time when the job was done, but he will be disappointed not to take advantage of Chelsea going a man down.