Newcastle United had a night to remember against Manchester City, but it certainly was not perfect.
Alexander Isak scored Newcastle’s only goal of the game to dump Man City out of the Carabao Cup, but was unable to finish the match at St James’ Park.
The 24-year-old was replaced in the 62nd minute by Miguel Almiron, meaning the Magpies played the final half an hour without a recognised striker.
After the game, Isak admitted that he hoped he would be okay ahead of this Saturday’s Premier League clash with Burnley, but it was certainly concerning to see him forced off.
The Swedish forward has been struggling with a knee issue in recent weeks, and now Eddie Howe has explained what happened against Manchester City and why he had to take his record signing off.
Eddie Howe has his ‘fingers crossed’ for Alexander Isak
Following the 1-0 win, Howe spoke to NUFC TV. He was asked to provide an update on Isak after the striker was forced off.
“He just had a tightness in his calf come on him,” he said.
“Fingers crossed it’s not too bad but with Callum Wilson also nursing a bit of a tight hamstring, we’re certainly stretched in that area a little bit.”
Newcastle need the Swede fit and firing
Hopefully there is nothing to worry about and Isak is fine. It is vital that he is fit, especially with three big games on the horizon before the next international break.
He is in fine form, and has now equalled Callum Wilson’s tally of four for the season.
It is worrying to hear that Wilson is also struggling with an issue, but hopefully him missing the win over Man City was just a precaution.
But with Isak and Wilson picking up muscle problems, it just shows how light Newcastle are up front. They are the only two recognised senior strikers at the club right now.
If neither of them are fit for Burnley, we will likely see Anthony Gordon operate as a striker.
But hopefully that is not the case and at least one of them is available to play on Saturday.
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