Eddie Howe now very cautious of overplaying 24-year-old Newcastle player going forward

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Newcastle United look set to receive a huge boost this weekend, with Alexander Isak due to return from injury.

The 24-year-old has been out of action with a groin injury, having missed the Magpies’ previous five games. He was forced off early in the Champions League defeat at St James’ Park to Borussia Dortmund, and has not been seen since.

Callum Wilson led the line in his absence – until he got injured too. That has forced Anthony Gordon to play through the middle, meaning Newcastle have been short of a winger.

The Toon squad has been massively stretched in recent weeks, which is why it is excellent to hear that Isak is in line to return for the game against Chelsea on Saturday.

It is vital that Isak is fit again, as Newcastle have some huge games coming up. Following the clash with Chelsea, it’s PSG in the Champions League then Manchester United in the Premier League.

From now until the end of the year, Newcastle have two games a week, and it is unclear how long Isak will be the club’s only recognised striker with Callum Wilson out of action with a hamstring problem.

It puts Isak under a lot of pressure to stay fit, which Eddie Howe is very aware of.

Eddie Howe set to be careful with Alexander Isak

According to the Athletic, Eddie Howe is going to be cautious with how he uses Alexander Isak following his return from injury.

That is sensible, as Newcastle can simply not afford to lose him again – not with the volume of games coming up and the inability to call upon Wilson.

That means we could see more of Gordon playing up front, as he is the club’s only other real alternative.

Joelinton could play through the middle, but his performance at Bournemouth proves he is still no better as a centre-forward despite improving his all-round game under Eddie Howe.

Another option could see Ben Parkinson get more minutes. The 18-year-old made his debut in the defeat to Bournemouth.

But none of the alternatives are ideal for Howe, who will be desperate to get Wilson back as soon as possible so he can properly rotate his strikers.