Newcastle United's European ambitions have been turbo charged this season.

The Magpies were not anticipating such a quick rise after successfully avoiding relegation last season.

However, Swedish international Alexander Isak admits that with the guidance of manager Eddie Howe, they have managed to step up their level and are now all but certain to finish in the Premier League top four.

Asked about their project, per The Mirror, Isak said: “When I signed I knew it was a good project, and I knew the club's goals.

“But it has come quickly. The job isn't finished, but we have got ourselves in a great position to achieve something for this club. We have to finish it, stay focused.

“We all have (the Champions League ) in the back of our heads. We have to be realistic, the job is not finished. We have to get there now. We know what we are fighting for and how close it is. The job needs to be done.

“They told me the ambition was to become a big club and to fight for something. Since I came I felt that. Already we have done some great things. We have to reach our goal now, so it means something. I think what we aim for and what the club wants is great and we are on a good path."