Eddie Howe has predicted that Alexander Isak's performance against Nottingham Forest will only make Callum Wilson more determined to 'fight' for his place at Newcastle United.
Isak scored both goals in Newcastle's 2-1 win at the City Ground as the club's record signing was named man of the match for the second successive game. It was Isak who popped up with a superb improvised volley before the break, to cancel out Emmanuel Dennis' opener, and the striker followed up that equaliser with a flawless penalty at the death to send his side home with all three points.
Among those who were on their feet celebrating that winner was unused substitute Wilson, who said earlier this week that 'success for the club brings success for every individual within the team'. Rather than sulking about losing his place, at a time when he has been unable to train regularly due to illness and muscle tightness, Wilson has always been one of the first to congratulate Isak after scoring.
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In fact, it was Wilson who personally welcomed Isak to the club in the first place back in August and the pair even sit beside each other in the dressing room. However, far from being a cheerleader, Wilson has previously spoken about how increased competition brings out the 'dog' in him and Howe is expecting the 31-year-old to respond after the international break.
"Callum is a top professional and he is driven more than anybody that I've ever worked with," the Newcastle boss told reporters. "He will see Alex performing as he has done tonight and he will be delighted for Alex and the team, but it will only make his resolve even stronger to fight for that place."
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