‘Haven’t seen him’… Eddie Howe confirms that £20m player is still not in Newcastle training

Add as preferred source on Google

As ever, Newcastle United cannot fully enjoy a victory it seems.

Indeed, even despite becoming the first team to beat Aston Villa in their own backyard in the Premier League this season, Newcastle lost a player to injury.

While the extent of Alexander Isak’s groin problem remains unclear, the Swede was forced off before half-time at Villa Park.

Eddie Howe could now be left light for the visit of Luton on Saturday. Callum Wilson would usually back up Isak but has been missing of late and it seems he will not be in line to feature.

Callum Wilson injury: Eddie Howe shares Newcastle latest

Speaking to the Northern Echo, Howe confirmed the £20m striker was yet to return to training.

“I think Callum has been doing well, but we haven’t seen him in training yet,” he said.

“The others are a bit behind them.”

Newcastle injury news: Anthony Gordon up front?

Potentially without Isak and Wilson, a lot of the onus will fall on Anthony Gordon.

The winger has scored seven goals this season and took up the striking berth after Isak was forced off. Still, he hasn’t always convinced there, albeit that is understandable given all his excellence out wide.

Hopefully, with Jacob Murphy fit again and Harvey Barnes potentially making his long-awaited comeback, Newcastle will have enough in the way of firepower. If they can beat Luton and raise further morale ahead of games against Nottingham Forest and Bournemouth, Howe’s side could be in a position to make a late run for at least the top six.

When Wilson and Isak are available, it’s hard to think of a better striking duo in the Premier League. Keeping them both fit and firing, however, is proving rather difficult.

Now, it’s up to Gordon to step up in their absences.