Newcastle has ‘new Ibrahimovic’ that Howe can unleash in top-four push

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Former England manager Sven-Goran Eriksson believes that Newcastle may have signed themselves their ‘own Zlatan Ibrahimovic’ in the form of Alexander Isak. The Sweden international has made just three appearances for the club since his arrival from Real Sociedad but is returning to fitness.

Newcastle are currently third in the Premier League and have been one of the most improved clubs in the competition, with Eddie Howe reaping the benefit of his side’s precise recruitment. And the former Bournemouth boss could have his squad strengthened once again when Isak returns to fitness.

The 23-year-old is currently sidelined with a calf injury, though he may now be available for their FA Cup against Sheffield Wednesday this weekend after returning to training earlier this week. Isak was one of the brightest talents in the La Liga prior to his £58million move to St James’ Park.

Isak scored two in his opening three matches for Newcastle, and Eriksson is expecting him to kick on again upon his return. He told OLBG: “Alexander Isak has been injured, I hope he’s ready to play again soon.

“Newcastle United today is a big club and they are doing extremely well. It will be interesting to see how my fellow countryman performs for them. Isak is Sweden’s most interesting and promising player we have in the national team. Zlatan Ibrahimovic was the last big player we had and Isak could be next.”

Callum Wilson and Chris Wood have led the line well for Newcastle in the absence of Isak, though both have struggled with injuries previously and further strength in that department is compulsory if Howe’s side are to secure Champions League football for next season. Though the Englishman is keen not to rush his No 14 back.

Speaking before training on Friday, Howe said: “Let’s get through training today. I’m not clear because I don’t want to put pressure on him. We’ll introduce him at the right time, he’s getting closer all the time, and he has trained with the team, so we’re pleased with his progress, let’s wait and see.”

Howe was then asked about the mental difficulties that Isak may have been going through after sustaining an injury so early in his Newcastle career, he replied: “Initially he was hugely disappointed, there was a feel of real frustration because he wants to contribute, he wants to show his talents. He wants to contribute, he’s trying to, whenever a footballer is back on grass, in amongst his team-mates, he will feel like things are totally different.”

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