Fulham manager Marco Silva believes Newcastle United can be very satisfied with how they replaced Alexander Isak in the summer.
The Magpies were loathed to lose their top scorer, but eventually agreed a record deal with Liverpool for his transfer, and turned to imposing German Nick Woltemade to fill his boots.
The 6’6 frontman has proved an immediate hit on Tyneside, finding the back of the net four times in his first five Premier League matches.
“Very good striker, very good striker,” Silva admitted. “Of course, they had, last three seasons, an unbelievable striker, too. It’s not something new for them. It is a good sign, for them as a football club.
“When they lose a great striker – because Liverpool spent that amount of money on him – that means recruitment, and they did it well.
“They went for a slightly different style, but to spend the money they spent on him and the impact that he has had straightaway, I think is very good.
“One is slightly different, probably not so aggressive in the space like Isak was, much more a player that is very good leading the play. And, of course, inside the box he can score.
“He showed already that inside the box he can score in many different ways. The game against Brighton is a good example, the way he was able to finish in that way and score in that way.
“He's a very good one – the way sometimes he can be the extra midfielder and he'll come to link their game and support for them to beat the first pressure, for example. And, of course, inside the box his profile is a very good one.”
Fulham are looking for their first points in the league in over a month and take on a Newcastle side flying high after a comprehensive 3-0 win over Benfica in the Champions League.
Silva masterminded a late come-from-behind victory away to Newcastle last season and knows the challenge Eddie Howe’s side poses. He said his side will have to get to grips with the atmosphere at St James’ Park.
"We recognise their quality; it's going to be a challenge for us. St. James Park - lovely, beautiful place to play football, but tough too. They have the 12th man, the fans."
Source Geoff Pruce at Fulham FC-Sam Tabuteau at The Standard