Newcastle United supporters are buzzing after learning Alexander Isak will start up front against Wolverhampton Wanderers. Recent substitute appearances made Toon fans clamour for Eddie Howe to start the £58million record signing.
The Swede has endured a frustrating first season at St James’ Park, with injuries limiting his game time. Despite the setbacks, Isak has impressed in black-and-white stripes when given the chance - as he did at Manchester City last weekend.
Howe revealed at his pre-match press conference that the 23-year-old cannot play an entire 90 minutes but he will spearhead the attack from the start. Callum Wilson, who has scored just once in his last 16 games across all competitions, drops to the bench.
READ MORE: Everything Eddie Howe said on Wolves, injuries, Isak and more at Newcastle press conference
The other eye-catching news regards Jacob Murphy, named in the starting line-up for the first time since November. A radical shake-up of the attack means he and Allan Saint-Maximin will accompany Isak in Newcastle's frontline.
In defence, the left-back spot polarised opinion all week due to Dan Burn struggling in recent weeks. Matt Targett made his long-awaited return a week ago but Howe has opted to stick with the Blyth-born defender.
The midfield of Sean Longstaff, Bruno Guimaraes and Joe Willock chooses itself, with Joelinton serving a two-match suspension for picking up 10 yellow cards. Reaction to the team was positive on social media, with kudos given to Isak’s inclusion.
@jgardella_: YES Murphy. He deserves that.
@kieraatoonx: ISAK FINALLY STARTING
@jacknufc_99: FINALLY SOME NEEDED CHANGES
@tynetakes: Think Murphy deserves the chance tbh, he’s been good off the bench in previous weeks. Rumours Gordon had been ill. Nice to see asm and isak starting. Huge game for us let’s build some momentum. HWTL
@KierenW6: Targett for Burn and it would of been perfect anyway good to see changes let’s get the win
@RichCopp2: Looking forward to seeing that front three! Murphy done well off then bench now a chance to improve yourself
@Ben98Whiteley: Fair play for actually having the balls to play that front 3. Hopefully it pays off
@Kensey_ NE: Isak and maxi starting. There is a god
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