Newcastle striker Alexander Isak is a doubt for Saturday’s trip to Fulham which could see the Magpies go top of the Premier League.
The 24-year-old suffered eye and foot injuries during last Sunday’s 2-1 win at Wolves and Anthony Gordon is standing by to deputise in a central role.
Asked how the Sweden international was, head coach Eddie Howe said: ‘Good question, I’ll find out more today.
‘It was a strange one with his eye. The ball just grazed his eye and we felt at that time, that was the main reason for him coming off the pitch.
‘Then he had a knock to his foot as well, so he’s got a combination of the two. We’ll make a decision today.’
Isak’s natural replacement, Callum Wilson, meanwhile, remains injured, with Howe adding: ‘Callum won’t make the game.
‘We’re looking and hoping to have him back in full training for the international break, to be ready hopefully for the games afterwards.’
The Newcastle boss is, therefore, likely to shuffle his pack which could mean a central role for Anthony Gordon which would in turn free up an opportunity for last week’s matchwinner, Harvey Barnes, to regain a starting spot.
‘Starting regularly is up to him,’ said Howe. ‘There is no guarantee. Harvey has a real coolness in front of goal, he has this way he strikes the ball, his positioning is very good. You don’t score the amount of goals he does if you are not in the right areas.
‘He is a really humble lad and he is prepared to work for the team. I am delighted with how he has started the season.’
Source link