'Leaked' St James' Park photo confirms brilliant Newcastle United gesture vs West Ham

Isak initially made a slow start to the 2024-25 campaign, finding the net just once in the Magpies’ opening 10 matches - three of which he missed because of a broken toe.

That, however, now feels like something of a distant memory. The Magpies are currently on a three-game winning streak with Isak scoring in each of those victories against Chelsea, Arsenal and Nottingham Forest.

Since arriving at St James’ Park for a club-record £63million in August 2022, Isak boasts an impressive record of 40 goals in 78 appearances. Speaking ahead of the game against West Ham, Newcastle boss Eddie Howe hailed Isak as one of the best strikers in the world.

“He’s building momentum into his season,” said Howe. “He’s score some big goals of late for us and his general performances have continued to improve. He’s gone for Sweden and played very well, delighted with how he has looked on international break as well to continue that good form.

“Being a striker, it’s all about confidence and how you feel. Alex has undoubted qualities, I would put him right up in terms of world strikers currently playing. I feel his potential is great and if he can continue on the path he has been on in the last couple of seasons and can continue to prove himself as one of the world’s best then, without putting on him, that would be my target if I was him.”

Perhaps a natural consequence of possessing a world-class talent is hearing of constant speculation surrounding his future. That was the case for Newcastle fans in the summer when the Swede was linked away amid pressures to comply with Premier League Profitability and Sustainability Rules (PSR).

There have since been reports regarding his contract, despite it having four years left to run. The positive thing is Isak seems unbothered by the noise.

Having paid tribute to Anthony Gordon ahead of the 1-1 draw against Manchester City in September, fan group Wor Flags have now decided it is Isak’s turn. The only shame, however, is parts of the pre-match display have been ‘leaked’ ahead of kick-off on Monday after images emerged on social media.

Wor Flags responded and wrote: “Seen as it’s already leaked: On Monday, our display is a tribute to our number 14 (so long as Storm Bert doesn’t blow it away). Leazes End please get to your seats early to make sure the display will be seen in full. Don’t worry, there’s more to see that won’t be leaked… “

Wor Flags are also planning pre-match display dedicated to club legend Kevin Keegan ahead of facing Liverpool on Wednesday, December 4. Wor Flags rely solely on donations and are appealing for supporters to donate here.