Shaka Hislop says key Newcastle United player did ‘absolutely nothing’ against Chelsea

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It feels somewhat pedantic to be critical of any of the Newcastle United players right now. 

Indeed, this is a Newcastle United side to have made history. Less than two months ago, they ended the club’s wait for a major domestic honour by winning the Carabao Cup. On Sunday, meanwhile, they took a huge step toward Champions League qualification by beating Chelsea in the Premier League. 

Very few of Eddie Howe’s players have deserved any huge criticism for a prolonged period all season. They’ve enjoyed a brilliant campaign and could still finish second in the Premier League table. 

However, like it or not, Alexander Isak’s recent form is a slight concern. The striker has been brilliant all season, but things have slowed down in recent weeks. Again, it’s important not to go overboard but the Sweden international has not scored from open play since the 5-0 win over Crystal Palace last month. For a player of such quality, that’s a small drought.

Still, former Newcastle goalkeeper Shaka Hislop was struck by his performance against Chelsea.  

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

Shaka Hislop says Alexander Isak gave Newcastle ‘absolutely nothing’ against Chelsea 

There could be many reasons for his recent performances. Isak has been brilliant for much of the campaign and has largely had to play every minute for which he’s been available. This deep into the season, it’s natural that there could be a drop-off.

Former Newcastle striker Les Ferdinand says Isak is so good he’s allowed a dip in form and that’s certainly a logical statement. If Howe’s side get over the line in the Champions League race, few will remember what happened in the final few games of the season anyway. 

However, speaking on ESPN, Hislop said: “Even when Newcastle were on top and playing the better football, you saw absolutely nothing of Alexander Isak.

“For me, that almost stood out, how absent he was.

“I’m not questioning Isak, his talent, his importance to this team. I say that more in praise of Chelsea.” 

Alexander Isak’s stats against Chelsea

Newcastle value Isak at over £150million, having watched him develop into one of the best strikers in the world since the moment he arrived from Real Sociedad in 2022. 

He’s undoubtedly one of the most elite marksmen around right now. Criticism should be measured, and the context of the campaign should afford him some slack.

His outing against Chelsea, however, was a rather tough day at the office. 

Isak snatched at a volley in the first half and, per WhoScored data, managed only 31 touches (the tenth-highest out of 15 Newcastle players) despite playing almost the full game.

Hopefully, he clicks back into gear to seal that Champions League spot against Arsenal on Sunday.