Eddie Howe now shares the real reason why Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak was substituted at half time against Wolves

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Newcastle United played the second half of their win against Wolves without Alexander Isak.

The 24-year-old started up front for Newcastle United against Wolves on Sunday, with Alexander Isak full of confidence after scoring three goals for Sweden during the international break.

However, he was unable to continue his scoring streak at Molineux. Isak had a couple of bright moments in the first half against Wolves, but was unable to test Sam Johnstone.

Newcastle’s most expensive signing ever was isolated up front, and then did not re-emerge for the second half.

He was one of three Newcastle United players that were substituted ahead of the second half, with Sean Longstaff and Joelinton also coming off.

But while their departures were tactical, that was not the case for Alexander Isak.

Why Alexander Isak had to come off against Wolves

Following Newcastle’s 2-1 win over Wolves, Eddie Howe has spoken to the media and explained why Isak came off at half time.

“It was more his eye,” he said, as reported by Birmingham World reporter Charlie Haffenden on X.

“I wasn’t 100 per cent sure what the issue was but I knew he had to come off.”

Isak’s replacement won the game for Newcastle

Towards the end of the first half, Isak was hit in the face by the ball after a clearance from Craig Dawson. He received treatment in the immediate aftermath, but there was no suggestion that he would be unable to continue.

However, that blow to the face meant that the forward had to come off, with Howe suggesting that he had a problem with his eye.

While it was a shame to see Isak substituted, his replacement proved to be the match winner. Harvey Barnes came on in his place, which resulted in Anthony Gordon operating as a striker.

The 26-year-old scored the decisive goal at Molineux, with Barnes’ incredible goal from distance putting Newcastle in front.

Newcastle will hope Isak is fit to face Fulham next weekend

Next up for Newcastle United is a trip to Craven Cottage. The Magpies travel to Fulham next Saturday for a traditional 3pm kickoff.

Hopefully Isak will be fit enough to feature, otherwise Gordon might have to play up front again.

It is clear that Howe does not trust Will Osula yet after his summer arrival from Sheffield United, while Callum Wilson is still injured and is behind schedule after sustaining a back problem at the start of pre-season.