It is now Alexander Isak’s time to shine for Newcastle after cup final loss

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Newcastle United are yet to see the best of Alexander Isak, and it is now the striker’s time to shine after Sunday’s Carabao Cup final disappointment.

The Magpies were beaten 2-0 by Manchester United at Wembley, with Isak unable to inspire a second half comeback.

He came on at half time to replace Sean Longstaff, as Eddie Howe made an attacking change to try and drag his side back into the game. Isak was excellent at Wembley, with his direct speed and running causing Manchester United real problems.

However, it did not result in Newcastle getting back into the game.

After the final whistle, Howe praised Isak for his efforts off the bench. The Toon boss was pleased with the 23-year-old’s performance, and said he ‘looked really quick and dynamic’.

It was an impressive cameo from the £63million man, who was dropped in favour of Callum Wilson at Wembley. But now it is time for us to see more of the super Swede.

Newcastle need to see more of Alexander Isak now

Since joining from Real Sociedad in the summer, Isak has had a few brilliant moments in a Toon shirt. His debut against Liverpool, the winner against Fulham, his assist for Joelinton in the Carabao Cup semi final.

We have seen glimpses of why Isak cost so much, but the majority of his Newcastle career so far has been blighted by injury. And since returning, he has played second fiddle to Wilson.

But that should now change for the remainder of the season. It is now time for Howe to find a way of playing the pair together, or drop Wilson in favour of Isak.

We are clearly missing something in attack at the moment. Wilson has not been firing since the World Cup.

As for Isak, he is showing flashes of brilliance, but needs a consistent run in the starting lineup. He hasn’t had that since he signed for the club back in August.

Newcastle need an injection of creativity in attack if we are to reclaim ground in the race for Champions League football. Isak can provide that with his speed and style, while he has also proven he can be clinical in front of goal.

After Sunday’s cameo at Wembley, Howe must realise that now is the time to consistently get Isak in the starting lineup. After all, we didn’t spend £63million on him to warm the bench.