Eddie Howe hints at Will Osula Plan B after striker picked up his first Premier League goal on Saturday

Newcastle United's only real monetary outlay on a new player in the summer came in the form of signing Will Osula from Sheffield United for £15 million.

The Magpies forked out the £28 million for Lewis Hall as part of the loan agreement that was created last season, and of course, there was the laughable £20 million Newcastle paid for Odysseas Vlachodimos, which was essentially written off against the £35 million sale of Elliot Anderson.

It has been a year of intense patience for Osula who has made only three starts all season and on Saturday, his 12th Premier League appearance from the bench finally saw him pass the 90 minutes game time mark and also brought with it his first Premier League goal.

Despite being the only fit second option up front for most of the season, Eddie Howe has often used Anthony Gordon as a striker when Alexander Isak has been unavailable, hinting that Howe doesn't yet trust Osula to lead the line.

Eddie Howe was impressed with Will Osula's ability down the right wing on Saturday

On Saturday, when Osula came off the bench, he did so to replace Harvey Barnes and operate down the right wing. It's not the first time we've seen him deployed out wide this season, and Eddie Howe mentioned to the press after the game on Saturday how impressed he was with Osula's performance in an unusual position.

“We think he’s improved. But obviously, the acid test will be when he performs on the pitch and in the team. And today I thought he was excellent.

“He came on at right wing, which is a totally different position. I know it’s obvious, but it’s a totally different position and different skill set to playing as a nine.

“But I thought he looked a real threat. He looked quick and athletic. And the goal I thought was an outstanding finish. He’s 6’3″, verging on 6’4″. So he needs to be a physical presence. He needs to use his aerial skills. Delighted that he got his first Premier League goal.”

Will Osula could soon occupy a dual role at Newcastle

Newcastle are shockingly short of bodies on the right wing after selling Miguel Almiron, and while buying a new winger is a priority this summer, it seems as though Eddie Howe is creating a solid Plan B by deploying Osula on the right flank as well as keeping him as a striker.

It could work out really well for Osula if he can cover both positions, as there have been rumours that the 21-year-old could be loaned out next season.

However, if he's able to provide cover for striker and winger, Newcastle would be much better served keeping him at the club.