Pundit Jamie O’Hara has compared Newcastle striker Alexander Isak to Arsenal legend Thierry Henry.

The Swedish international terrorised the Gunners in the Carabao Cup semi-final second leg last week and, speaking to Grosvenor Sport, O’Hara said that Isak has performed to an incredibly high level:

“Gabriel and William Saliba could not deal with Alexander Isak at all on Wednesday – he had them rattled. Arsenal were all over the place. That is the first time I’ve ever seen them like that and they’re probably the best defensive partnership in the world now, which just shows how good Isak is.”

“There are shades of Thierry Henry about him – he’s so sharp playing off the shoulder of the centre back and he’s so deadly in front of goal. He’s exactly the type of player that Arsenal were missing yesterday and he’s undoubtedly one of the best strikers in the world.”

Isak has been in phenomenal form

Since the end of October, the 25-year-old has found the back of the net 16 times in 16 league matches.

Magpies supporters will be hoping that Isak can continue that hot streak in front of goal for the rest of the campaign as the club look to secure Champions League qualification.

Newcastle need to tie down the forward to a new contract

The Swede continues to be linked with a move away from St James’ Park, with Arsenal coincidentally seen as his most likely destination.

While the Magpies are still confident of keeping hold of Isak, with his contract set to expire in 2028, they could end speculation about his future by tying him down to a new deal.

Back in October, manager Eddie Howe confirmed that talks over an extension had stalled but, considering the player’s outstanding form, there should be greater urgency to find an agreement.

Find out who is in Newcastle United’s first-team squad for the 2024/2025 season here