Alexander Isak can be the key to Newcastle United qualifying for the Champions League next season, according to Jermaine Jenas, as he claimed that Eddie Howe's side "have more stability" than Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur.
Isak's last-minute winner against Nottingham Forest before the international break means that a win against Manchester United on Sunday will see Newcastle leapfrog the Red Devils and move up into third place. A spot in the top-four is still firmly within the Magpies' grasp as they look to use their two games in hand over Tottenham to put some distance between themselves and the side currently occupying fourth place.
Newcastle's defence has without question been superb this season, but Jenas believes it will be whether or not his former side can get firing up the other end of the pitch that will make all the difference come May after he singled out Isak as the one who can step up for Howe's team.
ALSO READ: Newcastle United fans demand Alexander Isak 'unleashed' for Man United game after Sweden display
“This year has been brilliant for them. I love how Eddie Howe has done it. Defence has been key to get them where they are but Isak will be the one who needs a run from here to the end of the season," Jenas said (via the Mirror).
“Fans know there’s a player in there but he’s not got to the point to be relied on because of the injuries. But now looking at him and the confidence he has, he could be the one to get them into the top four.
“Liverpool and Spurs are all over the place and you have to say Brighton are in the mix too. But they will all lose games and Newcastle have more stability. If he can get the goals they will be in the top four.
"To say they are ahead of schedule is an understatement," he added. "They are flying. This year has been brilliant for them, I love how Eddie Howe has done it. Europe was a target for them this year, no doubt, but with top four right in their sights - that’d be monstrous.
"It will also give them the firepower in the transfer market. If you’re a top player in Europe and have a choice between Newcastle and Spurs, well you’re going to Newcastle because they are in the Champions League. It’s a no-brainer. That will see them eclipse the teams fighting for that position."
READ NEXT
- Newcastle United fans to get 'front row seat' as details of Amazon Prime series officially confirmed
- Inside the bonkers summer when Newcastle United became 'Dad's Army'
- Newcastle United hit headlines in Italy with £88million 'offer' for Victor Osimhen
- Newcastle hoping for double boost fitness boost with Almiron and Gordon
- Steve Harmison's take on NUFC since takeover and reply to Klopp financial dig
