Alexander Isak became the 12th different Newcastle player to score a hat-trick in the Premier League

Those Newcastle fans who had made the long journey from the north-east to Suffolk got an instant reward.

With Isak needing only 26 seconds to score his first, steering in a loose ball. After Jacob Murphy’s cross from the right was not cleared.

Murphy added a second. Before Isak was gifted his own second and Newcastle’s third just. Before half-time. Ipswich goalkeeper Arijanet Muric tried to pass to Jens Cajuste, who lost possession to Bruno Guimaraes, and Isak had the simple task of scoring.

He did not have to wait long for his hat-trick moment, producing a predator finish at the near post after another Murphy assist.

“Alex is a world-class talent,” added Howe. “The way he took his goals, he has that coolness and composure very few have. When you add into ufabet https://ufabet999.app the mix his technical skills, I think he’s got it all.

“He has unique skills, and the challenge is to get him into the game as much as we can. Earlier in the season we weren’t doing that, but now the team are performing much better.

“He’s a player with a real confidence and we’re seeing a return to his really best levels. That’s highlight by the goals he has scored.”

‘I want him to help us win a trophy’

With the transfer window opening next week, Howe knows Newcastle, without European competition this season, will face a fight to keep hold of their striker in the future, but hopes Isak can go on to win silverware at St James’ Park.

“There’s no part of me or anyone at Newcastle that wants to let Alex go,” add Howe. “He’s very much part of our long-term plans. He’s first class.

“He’s motivated and wants to do well. He has big aspirations with his career but he’s still relatively young. His desire to score goals is second to none and regarding his future, everything has been positive. I would love for him to contribute to us winning a trophy.

“I don’t think contract talks have started. But he has a long contract. When the time comes. That will be discussed by Alex’s representatives and the football club.

“He’s very popular in the dressing room and that’s not always the case with an out-and-out goalscorer. He plays for the team, not just for himself, and he’s always willing to learn. I can’t speak highly enough of him.”