Newcastle’s Eddie Howe Confirms Alexander Isak Avoids Lengthy Injury Setback

Eddie Howe, the manager of Newcastle United, is uncertain about the availability of star striker Alexander Isak for the upcoming FA Cup last-16 clash against Brighton & Hove Albion this Sunday. However, he is optimistic that the injury Isak is currently nursing won’t sideline him for an extended period.

Isak, who has netted 21 goals in all competitions this season and ranks third in the Premier League’s scoring chart with 19 goals, missed his side’s 2-0 defeat to league leaders Liverpool on Wednesday due to a groin strain.

“I haven’t seen him since the match,” Eddie Howe commented regarding Isak’s condition. “We’ll assess him later today. We don’t believe it’s a long-term issue. We made no risks on Wednesday, and we can’t afford to do that given the stage of the season.

“Any player carries some risk, but we wouldn’t jeopardise his long-term fitness. We’ll evaluate how he feels today, and if he’s ready, he’ll feature.”

The 25-year-old’s injury comes at a crucial point, with a League Cup final against Liverpool set for March 16. Howe’s team currently sits sixth in the Premier League, just three points adrift of fourth-placed Manchester City, as they vie for a spot in European competitions next season.

Howe highlighted the necessity for Isak to get game time if fit, to maintain his form.

“With Alex, my stance is clear; if he’s fit for any game leading up to the EFL Cup final, he will play. This should be the mindset we adopt for all our players,” Howe explained.

“You can’t hold players back, as it disrupts their rhythm. The best way for a player to stay sharp and fit is by playing, and that’s our aim with everyone in the squad.”

When questioned about the notion that Newcastle relies heavily on Isak, Howe responded: “We acknowledge Alex’s strengths and capabilities, but I wouldn’t label us a one-man team. While he brings distinct qualities to that pivotal centre-forward position, we have various strategies and other players whose skills we can leverage. I saw positives in our performance against Liverpool, but we certainly didn’t impose ourselves enough in their final third.”