Striker shortage evident as Newcastle United held to opening-day stalemate against Aston Villa | OneFootball

Newcastle United began their Premier League campaign with a goalless draw against Aston Villa at Villa Park on Saturday, but the lack of a recognised striker proved to be the talking point of the afternoon.

Despite carving out several promising opportunities, The Magpies lacked the finishing touch needed to turn possession into points. Wingers and playmakers created a number of clear-cut chances, but none were converted, which clearly underlined the side’s glaring need for firepower up front.

The striker shortage has been a concern since early in the transfer window. Alexander Isak has made his intentions clear, both publicly and privately, that he wants a summer move to Liverpool, while Callum Wilson departed the club at the start of the window. Eddie Howe’s squad now has only 19-year-old Will Osula as a natural centre forward.

Against Villa, Howe deployed Anthony Gordon as a makeshift striker, but the winger was unable to take advantage of the openings that came his way. Further chances from Anthony Elanga, Fabian Schär and Harvey Barnes also went begging, as Newcastle’s profligacy left them settling for a single point.

With Liverpool next on the fixture list, Newcastle’s recruitment priorities are clear: sign a proven goalscorer. Brentford’s Yoane Wissa remains a strong candidate, with the forward understood to be open to a move to Tyneside. Securing a player of his proven Premier League pedigree could provide the cutting edge that Howe’s side desperately needs.