Newcastle United have issued a fitness update on Alexander Isak ahead of Sunday’s FA Cup tie against Brighton & Hove Albion.
Despite the Carabao Cup final on the horizon against Liverpool and a groin injury troubling Isak to the extent he did not play at Anfield on Wednesday, there are no plans to rest the Sweden international against the Seagulls.
When asked on Isak, Howe said today: “We’ll see today; I haven’t seen him since the game, so we’ll see how he is today and have a discussion with him, I’m sure. We don’t think it’s a long-term problem.
“In part, obviously, there was no risk taken on Wednesday, and there can’t be at this stage of the season. “If he’s fit, he will play.”
The head coach admitted that it was a risk with Isak no matter decision he makes. Howe said: “There’s always a risk with any player – even if they’re 100% fit, that’s the world that we’re in, but we wouldn’t take any risks on his long-term fitness. But we’ll see how he is today.”
Howe is hoping that he has a choice between Isak and no.9 Callum Wilson after the ex-Bournemouth striker came off with an injury at Anfield. Howe, speaking at his Press conference tonight, said: “I believe Callum is OK, he took a cut to his eye.
“But nothing more than that. I thought Callum did well in the game so fingers crossed he’s fine as well.”
Crucially, Howe must run late checks on Sven Botman and Joelinton with the pair potentially holding the key to a place in the last eight of FA Cup.
United, who go into the game after a 2-0 defeat at Liverpool, said: “Sven and Joe have a chance, today is a big day for them. Today we will see how close they are, whether they train with the team for the first time or not. Knowing both players, they will be keen to be involved.”
View news Source: https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/newcastle-united-make-alexander-isak-31099697
