William Osula is in with chance of a first Premier League start on Saturday night
William Osula of Newcastle United scores his team's second goal past Alisson Becker of Liverpool
Alan Shearer says William Osula has been presented with a great opportunity to make his mark with the Newcastle United striker likely to be handed a first Premier League start on Saturday. The on-going situation with Alexander Isaac and the three-game suspension for Anthony Gordon is set to open the door for Osula to get an unexpected opportunity when the Magpies visit Leeds United on Saturday tea-time.
Osula has only made three starts for Newcastle since his 2024 arrival from Sheffield United, with those coming in the Carabao Cup and FA Cup. No doubt boosted by his goal against Liverpool on Monday night which had looked like it was going to rescue a point for the hosts, Osula is on course for a starting berth at Elland Road.
It's a rapid course correction for a player who earlier in the summer was being discussed as potentially heading out on loan to get some much-needed experience. Now he looks set to be handed a chance to lead the line as Newcastle go searching for a first win of the season.
Speaking on the Rest is Football podcast, Shearer said: “I think he’s very raw. I think there’s still learning, still sort of getting used to the pace and what have you.
“But I think because of the situation now with Anthony Gordon missing three games, he will probably have to play or start on Saturday against Leeds, and this will be a good opportunity for him.
“Still plenty to learn, but you can’t ever fault his attitude. I think he will give as good as he has got and will make it difficult for defenders. But still got work to do.”
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