Newcastle United assistant manager Jason Tindall has been addressing the media today instead of Eddie Howe, and he has just delivered some very exciting news.
With Eddie Howe suffering from illness, it has been up to his righthand man Jason Tindall to speak to the press ahead of Saturday’s clash with Luton Town.
The Magpies will be looking to get revenge after losing 1-0 at Kenilworth Road back in December, but they could be hindered by injuries.
Newcastle’s striker situation is very unclear heading into the game. Callum Wilson was unable to confirm if he will be back in time, while it had looked like Alexander Isak would miss out. He was forced off against Aston Villa, and it was reported that he could be out of action for a few weeks.
However, the latest update from Tindall suggests that the 24-year-old forward could actually be involved at St James’ Park on Saturday.
Alexander Isak could play for Newcastle against Luton Town
Tindall has spoke to the media ahead of Newcastle United’s Premier League clash with Luton Town, and shared an injury update on Alexander Isak.
“He’s a lot better, he’s improved,” he said, as reported by the Athletic.
“Wednesday, Thursday and then this morning there’s been improvement.
“He’s a one we’ll have to assess after today. He’s got a chance to be involved tomorrow but we’ll speak to the medical team and see.”
Starting Isak against Luton would be a huge risk
That will be a massive boost if the Swede is available. It would also justify Newcastle’s decision not to bring in a striker on deadline day – even if that never actually felt likely.
But even if Isak is fit enough to feature, it might be wise for Newcastle to err on the side of caution. After what happened on Tuesday night, starting him would be a risk.
It might be a better option to deploy Anthony Gordon through the middle, and have him flanked by Jacob Murphy and Miguel Almiron. There could also be backup from Harvey Barnes, who will hopefully be back from his own injury and make the bench.
While it is vital that we beat Luton, we do not need to take unnecessary risks. Starting Isak would be just that, so he should only be used in case of emergency.
But the fact that his injury is seemingly nowhere as bad as first feared is hugely positive.
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