When Newcastle United needed a gamechanger in the Champions League, Eddie Howe turned to Alexander Isak.
The 24-year-old was left on the bench for the decisive Champions League game against AC Milan, with Callum Wilson getting the opportunity to lead the line.
But we did see Alexander Isak in the second half, as he came on to replace Anthony Gordon for the final half an hour. It was a strange decision to withdraw Gordon, but Howe has since stated that the winger had a hamstring problem.
That meant that Isak was tasked with playing on the left wing rather than through the middle, where he got the chance to run at the AC Milan defence as Newcastle went in search of a winner.
There were some bright moments from the Swede, but he did not perform anywhere near his best. He lacked that explosiveness, with his speed often being his most dangerous weapon.
It was a disappointing cameo from Isak, and Howe has now explained that the club record signing is still not fully fit after his recent injury.
Eddie Howe admits Alexander Isak is not ‘100%’ after Champions League exit
Following the 2-1 defeat to AC Milan, Howe spoke to Swedish outlet TV4 Play, and admitted that is not ‘100%’ physically.
“He has just come back from a serious injury,” he said.
“He doesn’t feel completely 100% at the moment. We are trying to keep him in shape.
“I thought he did well when he came in. But I don’t think he’s physically at his best, but hopefully he will be.”
Isak failed to deliver for Newcastle against AC Milan
It is no surprise to hear Howe say that Isak is not fully fit. That looked evident in his performance.
There were still moments of magic. However, he was unable to play at full tilt which massively hindered him.
Isak has looked off the pace during our past three games, so it is a blessing that Callum Wilson is back from his own injury.
But Wilson himself is still regaining his sharpness, and Eddie Howe will be desperate for both of his strikers to get back to their best as they look to bounce back from three straight defeats.
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