Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak is a “special, special centre-forward”, Jamie Carragher has said on Sky Sports this week.
What did Carragher say about Isak?
Despite not scoring in the match, Isak delivered another accomplished performance in Newcastle’s 2-0 victory over Manchester United on Sunday, recording an impressive 7.2 WhoScored rating.
Now, speaking on Monday Night Football (3rd April 2023, 23:00pm), former Liverpool legend has said the Red Devils missed a trick by not securing the services of the Swede when they had the opportunity last summer.
Carragher said:
“I love him. I love watching him play. I mean Manchester United need a centre-forward, you look at him and I think he would be absolutely fantastic for Manchester United.
“They could have got him at the start of the season. When I first saw him at Anfield, I think it was his first appearance, he looked outstanding and he looked electric”.
How good has Isak been for Newcastle?
After arriving from Spanish side Real Sociedad for £60m last August, Isak initially struggled with a hamstring injury that led to him missing 13 matches and failing to build momentum in his first season at St James’ Park.
However, he has started the Magpies’ last three matches, notching three goals in the process and establishing himself as a key member of the side going forward.
The 6 foot 4 marksman played a key role in his side’s first goal in the key clash in the race for Champions League qualification, forcing a mistake with his pressing that led to a turnover before then feeding the ball out wide to Bruno Guimaraes who delivered the cross that created the goal.
Carragher also added:
“I just love the energy and aggression on that ball – that touch on the left foot, that touch then on the right foot [in the build-up to Willock’s opener], then to play a pass [to Guimaraes], honestly, I think it’s absolutely fantastic.
“That goal is down to him. But the most important player, in that game going 1-0, was Isak – I think Newcastle have a special, special centre-forward.”
The 23-year-old’s talent, skill, and potential make him a crucial asset to the team’s future success, as a player who looks ready to step up at Champions League level if Newcastle do get over the line for a top-four finish.
With Callum Wilson now 31-years-old, Isak – who earns a reported £120k-per-week at St James’ Park – looks to be replacing him in the starting striker role and, as Carragher has commented, he is already displaying the attributes to become a real legend in the North East.