Alexander Isak embodies Newcastle United’s start to the season well.
On the first day, he was out of this world, scoring twice in a 5-1 win over Aston Villa. Isak hasn’t scored a single goal since.
Newcastle’s record signing has failed to build on his opening day brace and has been dropped from the squad for the encounter against Brentford. Callum Wilson, his replacement, scored the game-winning goal.
It’s uncertain who will start against Sheffield United on Sunday, but Wilson is expected to start ahead of the 24-year-old.
And now, Eddie Howe’s comments suggest that Newcastle should stick with their number nine rather than their super Swede.
Eddie Howe acknowledges Alexander Isak has a ‘knee problem.’
Howe speaks to the media ahead of the game against Sheffield United. He was queried about Isak’s fitness ahead of the game at Bramall Lane.
“When I look at his last performance against AC Milan, I saw so much good from him,” he stated.
“I believe he linked play very well for us.” We didn’t really gel as a squad in the final third. That is self-evident.
“He’s been feeling his knee a little bit in the last few weeks.” He’s had a knee problem that we’ve been trying to treat.
Newcastle must keep a close eye on him.
Howe has confessed that Isak has been suffering from a knee injury for the past few weeks, which could explain why he hasn’t been performing well. It also increases the likelihood that Wilson will start on Sunday.
Newcastle must exercise extreme caution with Isak. He was out for a lengthy time last year due to a thigh injury, and Wilson’s fitness is always a difficult position. Last week, we witnessed the 31-year-old practice alone in preparation for the AC Milan encounter, as the club attempts to control his workload.
Newcastle only has two established attackers, so taking any excessive risks with the £63 million man would be foolhardy.
Howe understands this, so don’t be surprised if Isak is named to the bench when the lineup for the match against Sheffield United is announced at 3:30pm on Sunday.