‘Getting there’… 24-year-old Newcastle star confirms he’s feeling much fitter now

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Injuries have played such a huge part in Newcastle United’s season.

Indeed, it is something Eddie Howe is believed to be pointing towards behind the scenes, even if the Newcastle manager is never likely to make much in the way of public excuses.

Still, it is difficult to ignore the sheer number of ailments Howe has had to deal with this season. Whether or not they are the sole reason for the relative malaise this time around is of course up for debate but even the likes of Jurgen Klopp have noted upon it.

One of the most frustrating absences has been Alexander Isak. The 24-year-old is enjoying another productive campaign, bagging 14 goals in 27 appearances across all competitions, but has not been fit regularly enough.

Howe admitted Isak was rushed back for the defeat at Arsenal but was full of praise for his performance against Wolves on Saturday, another game in which he scored.

After the game, Isak shared the latest in regards to his fitness.

Alexander Isak: Newcastle fitness latest

Speaking to The Northern Echo, Isak confirmed he was gradually getting back up to speed.

“I think I’m getting there, especially physically,” he said.

“It takes some time to get back to your match fitness fully, but I feel like I’m getting there. That helps my game as well.”

Alexander Isak injury news: Newcastle’s season relies on striker

With Callum Wilson unavailable for a significant period of time and potentially leaving at the end of the season anyway, a lot will be expected from Isak between now and the end of the campaign.

At his best, it is difficult to think of many Premier League strikers better than him. Only six players have scored more goals than him this season and his haul of 11 so far would surely be much better had he not been injured so often.

Keeping him consistently fit has been an issue of course. Still, if they can rely on Isak between now and the end of the season, perhaps a late run to the Europa League spots does not feel out of the question.