Howe issues Osula update and reveals how 6ft 4′ Dane impressed him in training

Eddie Howe has revealed that Will Osula has been impressing in training and working hard on his game, giving him a “decision to make” ahead of tomorrow night’s cup clash with Wimbledon.

The Danish U21 international has only managed a seven-minute cameo at Fulham so far this season, but Howe praised his progression and attitude off the pitch following his £15m move from Sheffield United over the summer.

Amid suggestions h could start at St James’ Park on Tuesday night, the boss has talked up the “physically excellent” striker, revealing that he’s already shown his ability to score goals and have a “physical impact” based on the battles he’s had in training with the likes of Dan Burn and Fabian Schar.

Howe admits he’s “got some things to smoothen out in his game”, but hailed his positive attitude and approach to training as he hopes for his first start with Alexander Isak and Callum Wilson both absent.

Speaking to the media today, Howe said: “We are light in the centre forward area. I thought Anthony [Gordon] did very well on Saturday with his commitment and endeavour to the role. We really like Will [Osula], he is training really well and we have a decision to make.

“With new signings, there is a process these players have to go through, depending on their respective pathways and how they get to this point. With Will (Osula), he’s come in and we were well aware that we would have to go to work as coaches and Will would have to go to work as a player to develop himself and improve every area of his game to become a Premier League striker.

“We feel he has the attributes to do that. Very, very quick. Physically excellent. Obviously he’s a tall and imposing character. His best asset is probably running in behind and stretching the line for us.

“He’s got some things to smoothen out in his game, but we’ve seen already, certainly from the battles he’s had with our centre-halves in training, that he has an ability to score goals and an ability to have a physical impact on the game and make it uncomfortable for defenders.

“We’re working hard with him. He’s working hard himself. His attitude has been excellent. He comes in with a big smile on his face every day. His career and his game is going in the right direction.”

About Olly Hawkins

As a Junior Magpie since birth and season ticket holder, I eat, sleep and breathe all things NUFC! Here at the blog, I aim to bring you news, views, match reports and transfer exclusives as and when I get them.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *