Newcastle United kicked off their pre-season tour of Japan with a resounding 4-1 victory over Urawa Red Diamonds. Alexander Isak opened the scoring early, showcasing his electrifying form, while Jacob Murphy bagged a brace, further solidifying his place in the squad.
Isak Continues to Impress
The Swedish forward, who had an outstanding debut season with Newcastle, looks set for an even better campaign. After a well-deserved break from international football, Isak returned to the pitch with renewed vigour, demonstrating his ability to change the game single-handedly. While his goals have always been a highlight, his work rate and determination have also taken a noticeable step forward. His first goal, a powerful strike from distance, showed a desire for "ugly goals" that manager Eddie Howe has previously spoken about, indicating a further development in his all-round game.
Earthquake Interlude
The Newcastle squad faced an unexpected challenge in Japan: a 4.6 magnitude earthquake that shook them from their sleep in the early hours. While some players, including Howe, slept through the tremor, others felt its effects and experienced some disorientation. The incident served as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of pre-season and provided an opportunity for the squad to come together and adapt to unforeseen circumstances.
Murphy's Statement Performance
With rumours circulating about Newcastle's pursuit of a new right-winger, Jacob Murphy seemingly responded with a statement performance against Urawa. He netted two crucial goals, taking his pre-season tally to four in four games, showcasing his determination and commitment to the club. While his position may be under scrutiny, his recent performances suggest he won't be going down without a fight.
Managerial Insights
Eddie Howe expressed his satisfaction with the team's performance and their adaptation to the challenging conditions in Japan. He singled out Isak for praise, highlighting his hunger and potential for further development. Howe also addressed transfer rumours, stating that the club is actively looking to strengthen the squad but was reluctant to discuss individual positions, respecting the players currently fighting for those spots. He confirmed that Newcastle is working diligently on bringing in new players before the transfer window closes.
What's Next for the Magpies?
Newcastle's Japanese tour continues with a match against Yokohama F Marinos on Saturday, August 3rd. This pre-season trip has offered valuable experiences for the team, both on and off the pitch, as they prepare for the upcoming Premier League campaign. The squad's resilience in the face of adversity, combined with the individual brilliance of players like Isak and Murphy, suggests a promising season ahead for the ambitious Magpies.