adminNewcastle United boss Eddie Howe has delivered a crucial update on the fitness of star striker Alexander Isak ahead of Sunday’s pivotal Premier League clash against Everton. The Swedish international’s availability has been a significant talking point for the Magpies, as they chase UEFA Champions League qualification in what promises to be a dramatic final day of the season.
Isak, who leads Newcastle’s scoring charts with an impressive 27 goals across all competitions this season, was a notable absentee from the squad that succumbed to a 1-0 defeat at Arsenal in their last outing. The forward has been battling a persistent groin issue, a concern that has flared up on several occasions throughout the current campaign, raising anxieties among the Newcastle faithful.
Speaking in his pre-match press conference, Howe provided a cautious but somewhat optimistic assessment of Isak’s condition. “He’s doing okay,” Howe stated, acknowledging the striker’s progress. However, he also confirmed that Isak had not yet trained with the main squad this week, which adds a layer of uncertainty to his participation. “He hasn’t trained with us yet, but he’s made good progress through the week. The next couple of days will be absolutely crucial to his availability on Sunday. There’s a chance.”
The Newcastle manager emphasized that the final decision on Isak’s involvement would be made late, likely on Saturday, after assessing his response to an increased workload. “Until he trains with us, we won’t fully know how he’s going to respond to the training and the demands that the game will place upon him,” Howe explained. “We’ll only play him if he’s fit to contribute, but at the moment he has an opportunity, potentially.”
This “touch and go” scenario highlights the delicate balance Howe must strike. While Isak’s prolific goalscoring ability is undeniable and would be a massive boost for a match of such high stakes, risking a further injury could have long-term repercussions for both the player and the club. Newcastle’s record without Isak this season further underscores his importance; they have failed to win or score from open play in any of the four Premier League games he has missed.
Despite the apprehension surrounding Isak, Howe maintained a confident stance on his squad’s ability to cope, should their leading man be unable to feature. “I am confident because I don’t think we are ever truly reliant on one player. The team’s strength is the team,” Howe asserted. He pointed to the collective spirit and depth within the squad, suggesting that other players are ready to step up if needed. “Yes, to have a good team you need good individuals within it, but we pride ourselves on being very team-orientated and team-focused because we know every single member of it is so important to the delivery of what we do. And that will be the case if Alex doesn’t make it. Someone else has to step up and grab the mantle.”
The potential absence of Isak is not the only injury concern for Newcastle. Howe also provided updates on Kieran Trippier, who has missed the last two matches with a calf problem, and Joelinton, who is definitively ruled out for the remainder of the season after receiving another knee injection. Trippier, like Isak, has not trained with the squad but is also considered to have a “chance” of featuring, with his progress being closely monitored in the days leading up to the game. Joelinton, meanwhile, is expected to return for pre-season training without any issues.
The match against Everton holds immense significance for Newcastle. A victory at St. James’ Park would all but guarantee them a place in next season’s Champions League, a remarkable achievement that would cap off another successful campaign under Howe’s stewardship. However, the Magpies cannot afford to be complacent. Everton, despite securing their Premier League status, have shown resilience and defensive solidity under their manager, Sean Dyche.
Howe acknowledged the challenge posed by their Merseyside opponents: “Everton have been in really good form, the challenge is a big one. We will have to be focused and concentrate on what we need to do to win the game.” He also expressed satisfaction with his team’s mood and preparation, despite the disappointment of the Arsenal defeat. “Training has been lively this week, been in good spirits, we are looking forward to it, it will be a great atmosphere and a great occasion.”
The atmosphere at St. James’ Park is expected to be electric, with the club even offering two free pints to supporters ahead of kick-off to fuel the fervent backing. Howe is keen for his team to harness that energy, stating, “To be at home, in front of our supporters, it is in our hands.” He stressed the importance of focusing solely on their own performance, rather than being distracted by results from elsewhere. “I don’t think we can look for any favours from anybody. We have to do our bit and that’s purely going to be the only thing in our minds. There will be no talk of other results or other teams. What will be, will be in that respect. Afterwards we’ll see and reflect, but we know what we have to do.”
As the clock ticks down to Sunday’s kick-off, the uncertainty surrounding Alexander Isak’s fitness will undoubtedly linger. His presence or absence could play a crucial role in Newcastle’s final push for Champions League football, but Eddie Howe remains steadfast in his belief that the collective strength of his squad will ultimately determine their destiny.
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