The 24-year-old was Newcastle United‘s top scorer, bagging 25 goals in all competitions to truly cement himself as the best striker in the Premier League after Erling Haaland.
It was a special campaign from Alexander Isak, who is now hoping to build on it. He has started pre-season incredibly well, with three goals to his name so far.
His latest came on Wednesday, as Newcastle beat Urawa Red Diamonds 4-1 in Japan. There were some impressive displays in black and white, with one of them coming from Isak.
Joe Willock also impresses for Newcastle against Urawa Reds
Another one of Newcastle’s star performers on Wednesday was Joe Willock.
The 24-year-old made his first Toon appearance since April, having taken time out to fully recover from an Achilles injury.
Eddie Howe was delighted to have Willock back, with the midfielder enduring an injury-ridden 2023/24 campaign.
Willock was only fit enough to make 14 appearances last season, and the hope is that he will be much more influential this year.
Alexander Isak excited to have his Newcastle teammate back
That is what Isak is eager for, having spoke to NUFC TV about Willock’s return and what he brings to the Newcastle United team.
“I’m very happy and very pleased for him,” he said.
“He’s been struggling and working very hard to get back.
“Happy to have him out there and hopefully he can stay fit because he is going to be very important for the team.
“He has qualities that are very different from the rest of the squad. The way he can carry the ball up the pitch. He has that quality to combine and create chances, so he is very important for us.”
Joe Willock and Isak have incredible chemistry
As Isak says, Willock is different to Newcastle’s other midfielders. He can carry the ball with purpose, gliding through the gears towards goal. While Joelinton can also be a dribbler, he does not do it with the same level of control and speed as Willock. The Brazilian is a powerhouse, while Willock is elegant.
The former Arsenal man can also create chances for others, which he did with ease against Urawa Red Diamonds. His through ball led to Isak opening the scoring, while he got the assist for Jacob Murphy’s first goal.
Within two minutes, Isak and Willock’s chemistry was clear for all the see. The movement from the Swede was immediate once Willock got on the ball, and the midfielder found him. However, it was not quite as good as that pass Willock provided Isak with in that famous 6-1 win over Tottenham in 2023…
They have a great relationship on the pitch, and it is one that could help take Isak to even greater heights in black and white. As Isak says, fingers crossed Willock can stay fit and bring his unique qualities to this Newcastle United team.
