3 weeks ago
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Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has revealed that he felt the best course of action was to take Alexander Isak out of his squad for a pre-season friendly against Celtic, amid persistent speculation surrounding his future.
Howe claimed that, despite considerable speculation linking Isak with Liverpool's side, there has been no official bid from any club for Isak, and he emphasised the club's intention to retain the striker at St James' Park beyond this summer.
Isak was absent from the squad as Newcastle suffered a 4-0 defeat to the Scottish champion, with Howe acknowledging that the player was given time off. Chronicle Live queried the Newcastle boss on whether Isak was indispensable, especially after a match where the Magpies couldn't even muster a consolation goal.
He responded: "I'd say we have a few players who are irreplaceable. Your top players are so hard to find. They are so hard to recruit and develop. And make them into those players, when you have them you need to treasure them.
"We certainly as staff recognise his talent and ability. We are desperate to keep him as part of our team.", reports Chronicle Live.
On the subject of Isak's absence, Howe explained: "It was my decision. I decided to send him home due to the speculation around him. The last thing he wanted is to be sat in the stand watching, that wasn't fair to him."
When asked if he could assure fans that Isak would remain at the club, Howe stated: "It is difficult for me to sit here and give 100% clarity on any player. I'd never sit here and do that.
"It is football and you never know what can happen. All I can say is that Alex is happy at Newcastle, he loves the players and staff, the team.
"I have never had any issue with him other than seeing him express his talent and express himself. Certainly I am confident that he is going to be here at the start of the season."
Howe mentioned that Isak and Joelinton could have featured this afternoon if necessary, noting: "Both players are fit. But we just felt they were not ready to play.
"Everybody through pre-season goes through different challenges, Joe is back from a long injury. So we need to make sure when he is introduced he is ready. Alex has trained this week and is fine but we did not want to take the risk."
Reflecting on the 4-0 loss, Howe remarked: "I know everybody will be down on the performance but there was some good stuff in there as well.
"Austria was intense and all these tours are with the way we manage them. The players have been non-stop in work. There has been a little bit of play in there too. I think it probably showed in our performance.
"We travelled here yesterday and looked a little bit jaded. It was great for our preparation, the harder the game the better. Celtic you could see were way ahead of us fitness wise and sharpness wise. But I think we will be better for the game."
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