Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak exited their recent match against Brighton & Hove Albion with an apparent limp. However, manager Eddie Howe has played down any concerns regarding an injury, stating that the Swedish forward should be fit for the League Cup final against Liverpool.
The 25-year-old international is crucial for Newcastle as they aim for a European competition spot, and they have an opportunity to secure their first major trophy since 1955 when they take on reigning champions Liverpool at Wembley on March 16.
Newcastle already faced a setback with Anthony Gordon’s absence, having received a red card for violent conduct in their 2-1 defeat to Brighton during the FA Cup fifth round on Sunday. Additionally, they will be without defenders Lewis Hall and Sven Botman due to injury.
“Alex is fine. On Sunday, when he came off, he was feeling a bit fatigued towards the end of the match, experiencing some tightness, so we took him out. He has trained every day and seems good,” Howe told reporters on Friday.
“Fingers crossed, yes,” he responded when asked about Isak’s potential participation in Monday’s Premier League clash against West Ham United and the League Cup final. “If he is fit, he will play, as that’s the best way for him to achieve optimal physical condition for upcoming games.
“Footballers are finely tuned athletes, and when they are ready to play, they need to play. You have to seize that moment.”
Although Isak is contracted until 2028 and has netted 22 goals in 31 appearances across all competitions this season, there has been speculation linking him with moves to top European clubs, including Premier League rivals Liverpool and Arsenal.
Newcastle currently sits sixth in the Premier League, trailing fourth-placed Manchester City by three points after 27 matches.
“I recognise the intense speculation surrounding him, but the best approach is to remain calm and allow him to focus on his football,” Howe added.
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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