Pundit Tam McManus has said that he is 'buzzing' for Alexander Isak after hearing that the Swedish striker could return from injury for Newcastle United in the FA Cup this weekend.
The Lowdown: Isak could feature...
As per The Telegraph, the 23-year-old is set to play a role in Newcastle’s FA Cup clash at Sheffield Wednesday on Saturday evening, having sustained a thigh injury which has kept him out of action since September.
Eddie Howe has since given an update on Isak's situation in his pre-game press conference, stating that he will put the striker through training and will then see whether he is fit enough to make an appearance at Hillsborough.
The Latest: 'Unbelievable news'
Speaking to Football Insider, McManus has claimed that he is 'buzzing' for Isak after hearing of his potential return, calling it 'unbelievable news' for the player and for Newcastle.
The 41-year-old said: “I’m buzzing for him, that’s unbelievable news. I feel like all we have talked about for the last few months is when is he coming back? So to hear he could play this weekend is huge.
“I think if he comes on instead of Chris Wood in that Arsenal game then Newcastle get the win, he is that much of a difference maker.
“This is a high-quality player who cost a load of money and we have seen how well Newcastle’s other signings have done.
“Bringing him on against League One opposition is a good move, sensible. That gets him ready for a return to the Premier League and honestly, he could be the difference in the race for the top four. It’s seriously unbelievable news for the fans.”
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The Verdict: Big boost for Newcastle
Having Isak back is no doubt a big boost for Newcastle in terms of their chances of going through in the FA Cup, as well as for their next run of Premier League fixtures.
The Magpies' club-record signing got off to a great start in his career on Tyneside, scoring two goals in his opening three games, including one on his debut against Liverpool at Anfield (Transfermarkt).
Considering Callum Wilson's injury history and Chris Wood's goal-shy form at St James' Park, Newcastle will realistically need to keep Isak fit from now until the end of the season if they want to maintain their push for a Champions League place.