Howe now admits ‘outstanding’ Newcastle star has been playing with an injury

Add as preferred source on Google

Alexander Isak perfectly epitomises Newcastle United’s start to the season.

He was out of this world on the opening day, scoring twice during a 5-1 win over Aston Villa. Since then, Isak has not scored a single goal.

Newcastle’s record signing has been unable to build on his opening day brace, and lost his place in the side for the game against Brentford. His replacement, Callum Wilson, actually scored the winning goal.

It is unclear who will start at Sheffield United on Sunday – for what it’s worth, we have predicted Wilson to get the nod over the 24-year-old.

And now comments from Eddie Howe suggest that it might be wise for Newcastle to go with their number nine rather than their super Swede.

Eddie Howe admits that Alexander Isak has a ‘knee issue’

Ahead of the game against Sheffield United, Howe spoke to the media. He was asked about Isak’s form heading into the match at Bramall Lane.

“I look at his last performance against AC Milan, I thought there was so much good from him,” he said.

“I think he linked play really well for us. As a team, we didn’t really click in the final third. That’s pretty obvious.

“He has been feeling his knee slightly in the last few weeks. He’s had an ongoing knee issue that we’ve been trying to manage.

“I’m really pleased with him. I think he’s an outstanding talent.”

Newcastle must manage him carefully

Howe has admitted that Isak has had a knee issue for the last few weeks, and that perhaps explains why he has not been at his best. It also makes it even more likely that Wilson will start on Sunday.

It is imperative that Newcastle are careful with Isak. He was out for a long time with a thigh issue last year, while it is always a delicate situation when it comes to Wilson’s fitness. Last week we saw the 31-year-old train on his own in the buildup to the AC Milan game, as the club make an effort to manager his load.

Newcastle only have two recognised strikers, so it would be unwise to take any unnecessary risks with the £63million man.

Howe recognises that, so do not be surprised if Isak is named on the bench when the team to face Sheffield United is announced at 3:30pm on Sunday.