Former Celtic star backs international team-mate to succeed at Newcastle United

Former Celtic star Mikael Lustig has given his backing to Alexander Isak’s record-breaking move to Newcastle United.

The 23-year-old joined the Magpies in a £58million deal from La Liga club Real Sociedad and wasted no time in making an impact for Eddie Howe’s side.

After work permit issues prevented a possible debut in the recent 1-1 draw at Wolverhampton Wanderers, Isak scored just 37 minutes into his first appearance in a black and white shirt as his new side fell to a 2-1 defeat at Liverpool.

Isak put in a lively display on his St James Park bow against Crystal Palace on Saturday and came close to marking the occasion with a goal.

Lustig, who made 276 appearances during a seven-year stay at Celtic, has featured alongside Isak since the United striker made his Sweden debut in 2017 and has been a keen admirer of his international team-mate.

The former Rosenberg defender believes there is pressure on Isak to succeed but insisted the move to St James Park could be what he needs at this point in his career.

In an interview with Swedish outlet Sportbladet, he said: “It is clear that there will always be talk of the price tag and there will be pressure on his shoulders.

“But those of us who know him know what a down-to-earth guy he is, he will handle it well. It will be nice to follow him.

“I am very proud. We who have seen him and trained with him know that he has it in himself. He perhaps stuck a little in Sociedad last year, I think this move will do him well.”

Isak will hope to help the Magpies for his second win of the season when they visit West Ham United on Sunday afternoon.