Unstoppable Isak can spearhead Magpies' climb up the table

Alexander Isak is in superb goalscoring form for Newcastle.

The Swedish striker has struck five times in his previous five games, including an FA Cup brace against rivals Sunderland.

However, Eddie Howe's men are not hitting the heights of last term — they currently sit 10th in the Premier League and have already been knocked out of Europe.

As the Magpies prepare to face Aston Villa this evening, we consider how Isak can inspire an upturn in his side's fortunes.

Red-hot form

Despite Newcastle stuttering in the league, Isak has still shone upfront for Howe's team.

The 24-year-old has notched 10 top-flight goals, with only five players currently boasting a better record.

Given he has accumulated an xG of 10.06, it is safe to say the Stockholm native finishes most chances that come his way.

Isak is also the first Newcastle player to hit double figures in consecutive Premier League seasons since Demba Ba in 2012-13.

And he is productive in other ways, too, completing 34 take-ons this campaign and creating 11 chances for his team-mates.

If Newcastle are to begin a charge up the table, their No14 will likely be the catalyst behind it.

Howe praise

Howe recently revealed that Isak has been playing through a slight injury, which makes his current form even more impressive.

Due to a lack of options in attack, the Magpies boss has been forced to start his star striker regularly — despite him not being fully fit.

The English coach said: "He [Isak] is probably getting back to 100% fitness — I wouldn't say he's totally there yet.

"He's had his own injury troubles this season."

Howe was also full of praise for the 42-cap international, adding: "He is really the all-round striker, in my opinion.

"Alex is an outstanding individual.

"He can go on, I think, to achieve incredible things in his career. He's got so much more to offer."

Tough trip

Newcastle return to Premier League action with a tough away fixture against Villa tonight.

Unai Emery's side are enjoying a sensational season, as they battle to secure a coveted Champions League spot.

But the Magpies will be targeting a surprise win at Villa Park, to reignite their own hopes of playing continental football next term.

And they can take some inspiration from the performance in their narrow 3-2 defeat to Manchester City earlier this month, when Howe's outfit showed they can still compete with the division's top sides.

Isak, who scored a wonderful curling effort in that encounter, will be the man tasked with ensuring Newcastle come away with all three points this time around — and the Swede has proven he is up for the challenge.