Is Alexander Isak better than Erling Haaland? Newcastle legend Alan Shearer gives his verdict

Alan Shearer believes Alexander Isak is “as good as” any striker in the Premier League.

Erling Haaland has led the way in English football since joining Manchester City almost two years ago. His 52 goals across all competitions last season helped Pep Guardiola’s men clinch a historic treble - a feat they are looking to replicate this time around.

Haaland has been credited with re-energising the No.9 role following a slump in out-and-out goal machines. However, another Scandinavian prodigy continues to turn heads on Tyneside.

Isak bagged a stunning brace against Tottenham Hotspur at the weekend to move within three goals of Haaland in the Golden Boot race. The Swede bamboozled Spurs defender Micky van de Ven for both goals and took his tally to 21 for the campaign.

Speaking on The Rest Is Football podcast, Newcastle legend Shearer claimed that, when fit, Isak is on par with the Man City talisman. He said: “If you get him on the pitch, and have him fit, he’s as good as anyone in the Premier League. There’s no doubt about that. He’s so quick, he’s a really good finisher. He’s a clever, clever footballer.”

Shearer also hailed Eddie Howe for turning the Magpies’ season around despite a crippling injury crisis. Beating Tottenham moved Newcastle up to sixth - with Europa League qualification firmly in their sights.

“He’s (Howe) done a brilliant job,” Shearer added. “f you look at the injuries Newcastle had before the game, it’s arguable that you could have put a better XI out than the one they did against Tottenham.

“That tells you how good a job he’s doing. The last couple of results have been superb (and) they have a decent run-in. If they can get into the Europa League, it would still be an incredible season.”