Shay Given pulls no punches with Paul Merson after remarks on Newcastle United star Alexander Isak

Shay Given has strongly dismissed claims that Alexander Isak must leave Newcastle United to fulfill his ambitions, criticizing pundits like Paul Merson and Clinton Morrison for repeatedly pushing the narrative that Arsenal should be his next destination.

The former Republic of Ireland goalkeeper finds such speculation not only tiresome but also disrespectful to Newcastle, a club that has undergone a remarkable transformation under its new ownership. He argues that constant discussions about Isak’s future undermine the club’s progress and fail to recognize its ambitions.

Newcastle remains in a strong position despite facing challenges due to Profitability and Sustainability Rules (PSR), which have restricted the club’s financial flexibility.

Given shares the frustration of fans regarding these regulations, questioning their relevance in a modern football landscape where transfer fees and wages have skyrocketed.

He believes the constraints prevent Newcastle from competing at the highest level, forcing them to make difficult decisions regarding player sales. The departure of Elliot Anderson due to these financial restrictions serves as a clear example of how PSR limits the club’s ability to retain young talent, and Given fears that the same pressures could lead to unnecessary discussions about Isak’s future.

Selling a player like Isak, in his view, would be counterproductive. He sees the Swedish striker as a cornerstone of Newcastle’s future, someone who attracts other top players and should be the foundation upon which the team is built.

Rather than considering his sale, the club should focus on securing his long-term commitment with a new contract, ensuring that he remains at the heart of their attacking setup.

Champions League qualification would further cement his place at the club, making any move to another team unnecessary. Given believes that Isak should be rewarded for his performances, particularly considering his ability to deliver goals consistently at the highest level.

Isak’s qualities make him an invaluable asset to Newcastle. His composure in front of goal, intelligent movement, and overall technical ability make him one of the most exciting strikers in the Premier League.

Given describes him as the ideal center-forward, someone who embodies everything needed to lead the line for a top club. Losing him would be a major setback, especially when the goal should be to strengthen the squad around him rather than entertaining offers from rival teams.

As Newcastle prepares for a crucial match against Nottingham Forest, the team faces challenges after losing three of their last four games. However, Given remains optimistic about the club’s direction, crediting Eddie Howe and his staff for their steady progress.

He sees Howe as the perfect manager to lead this long-term project, emphasizing that every club experiences setbacks, but Newcastle’s upward trajectory remains intact. The team’s recent achievements, including a cup final appearance and a strong league position, reflect the progress made under Howe’s leadership.

Given argues that Isak has no reason to leave Newcastle, particularly if they secure Champions League football. The prospect of becoming a club legend should be more enticing than a move elsewhere, as winning silverware with Newcastle would immortalize him in the hearts of the fans.

Ending the club’s long wait for a major trophy would turn him and his teammates into heroes, creating a lasting legacy that extends beyond short-term financial gains or career moves.

Given believes that Isak understands this and sees Newcastle as the place where he can achieve greatness. The city would embrace him, and success on Tyneside would be a springboard for even greater accomplishments.

Newcastle’s ambitions align with Isak’s, making any speculation about his departure premature. The club is moving in the right direction, and with the right reinforcements, they can challenge for major honors in the coming years.

Given insists that Newcastle must prioritize keeping their best players and building a squad capable of competing at the highest level rather than succumbing to external pressure to sell. With a manager like Howe guiding the team and a passionate fanbase behind them, Newcastle offers Isak everything he needs to achieve his dreams.