Thierry Henry clone has joined Newcastle United to put Manchester United to shame
Gabby Agbonlahor believes Alexander Isak “has everything” and is the closest Premier League player to Thierry Henry.
Comparisons between the Swede and the Arsenal legend were made immediately after his Newcastle United debut. Arriving as a club-record transfer, Isak was plunged into the deep end at Anfield, with the Magpies nursing several injury concerns.
But two composed finishes - one dubiously ruled out for offside - delivered an instant impression. A thigh injury ruled Isak out until after the World Cup but, since becoming a regular during the 2022-23 run-in, he has become a firm hit at St James' Park.
An impressive 25 goals across all competitions last season has been built upon, with the striker netting 12 times in the Premier League despite a lacklustre start. Recent heroics against Ipswich Town, Aston Villa and Manchester United have fuelled debate about whether Isak has surpassed Manchester City goal machine Erling Haaland.
On a negative note, his form has also triggered speculation regarding a possible transfer. Speaking on talkSPORT, former Aston Villa star Agbonlahor had bold praise for the Toon talisman.
“What I love about him, when I watch him, is he can score a goal out of nothing,” he said. “When I watch Haaland recently, he’s not getting the (Kevin) De Bruyne service that he’s used to. When I watch Isak, he can score from outside the box, he can create his own goal or dribble past three or four players.
He is so good. He has everything. The attributes that he’s got… he’s an outstanding player. (He’s) 25 (with) three years left on his contract. Newcastle need to get him signed up on a five or six-year contract. If I’m Arsenal, I’m going in there with a big offer.
I love watching him. He’s the closest I’ve seen in the Premier League to Thierry Henry. You look at Manchester United with (Rasmus) Hojlund, then look at Isak and think ‘Dear me’.”