William Osula is in a very strange position at Newcastle United and while a decision has been made on his future, perhaps things could change going forward.
Osula is currently the only recognised senior striker at Newcastle who is available for selection.
Indeed, with Alexander Isak trying to leave Newcastle and Sean Neave even further behind in his development than Osula, the Dane could surely have expected a start in the Premier League this season after appearing in most of pre-season.
Still, Eddie Howe selected Anthony Gordon as his striker against Aston Villa and he looks set to continue in that role against Liverpool on Monday. That is hardly a ringing endorsement of Osula, who came on for roughly a minute at Villa Park.
Bayer Leverkusen are interested in Osula, who does not appear to have an immediate future in the Newcastle first-team.
However, a decision has seemingly been made on his future – although things could change.
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Newcastle United to keep William Osula – for now
According to The Chronicle, Newcastle have decided that Osula cannot leave at this stage.
With Isak’s future uncertain, Callum Wilson having left and no new striker through the door, the former Sheffield United youngster cannot leave.
The report does leave the door somewhat ajar, however. It’s said that progress must be made in the club’s hunt for a new striker before they sanction Osula’s exit.
Eddie Howe has already proven what he thinks of William Osula
Howe has been complimentary about Osula in press conferences this summer, but actions no doubt speak louder than words.
The fact Osula barely got a chance at Villa when Newcastle are crying out for a forward does say something, after all.
Newcastle staff are excited about Osula’s potential but Howe is yet to really prove that is the case when it comes to actual top level competition.
Clearly, letting him go now would be foolish given the Isak saga. Still, it looks increasingly as if Howe does not trust Osula.
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