5 days ago
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Eddie Howe has revealed Alexander Isak is no longer injured, as the transfer saga surrounding the Newcastle United striker took a fresh twist on Friday.
The 25-year-old has been training away from the rest of the team this week as interest from Liverpool continues. The Premier League champions saw a bid turned down last week and are yet to return with a follow-up offer for the in-demand forward.
But there remains hope that a deal can be concluded given Isak’s clear desire to leave Newcastle and the Magpies’ decision to freeze him out. The Sweden star has not featured for Newcastle all summer and was omitted from the pre-season squad in the Far East, with the club originally claiming he was not included due to a minor injury.
Isak did not play in the 2-2 draw against Espanyol at St James’ Park on Friday, and speaking after the match, Howe explained the striker is fully fit once again.
“His thigh injury has recovered. He has no fitness issues,” said the former Bournemouth boss.
His admission essentially confirms Isak’s isolation is purely due to disciplinary reasons.
Howe also admitted that he wants to select Isak in the team but cannot guarantee he will be available to face Aston Villa for next weekend’s Premier League kick-off.
“We’ve had discussions and it’s clear at the moment we can’t have him involved with the group,” said the 47-year-old.
"I don’t know how long that will be for. It’s clear I can’t involve him with the team at the moment.
“He is training later than the rest of the squad. There have been discussions since the tour. I don’t think disciplinary action has happened.
“He is here, so of course he has a future at Newcastle. From our perspective, we would love to have him back with the team, but the situation has to be right for that to happen.”
Meanwhile, Newcastle continues to be linked with replacements in the market with Yoane Wissa, Randal Kolo Muani and Samu Aghehowa all reported targets for the north-east club.
The Magpies have endured a frustrating window and has missed out on targets Liam Delap, Joao Pedro and Hugo Ekitike.
The latter, of course, ended up at Anfield and could now provide competition for Isak if he completes a move to Liverpool.
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