Alexander Isak, a striker for Newcastle United, is doubtful for Saturday’s Premier League match against Fulham, according to manager Eddie Howe.
Isak sustained an eye injury last Saturday and had to leave the Magpies’ 2-1 comeback triumph over Wolverhampton Wanderers at Molineux before halftime.
Since then, Howe has disclosed that Isak has also sustained a foot injury. This Friday, at the training field, an evaluation will be conducted to see whether Isak can play at Craven Cottage.
At a pre-game press conference, Howe responded to a query regarding the condition of the Sweden international by saying, “Good question, I’ll find out more today.”
“His eye was acting strangely. We believed that the ball’s slight graze on his eye was the primary cause of his departure from the play at that moment.
“He also received a hit to his foot, so he has both injuries combined. We’re going to decide today.”
Isak, 24, contributed one goal and one assist in Newcastle’s first four league games of 2024–25 after leading the Magpies in scoring with 21 goals in 30 Premier League matches the previous season.
In addition, Howe stated that Callum Wilson, another striker, is still out due to a back issue, saying, “Callum won’t make the game (on Saturday). For him to be prepared for the games after the international break, we’re seeking and hoping to have him back in full training.”
Who will be Newcastle’s starting forward against Fulham?
Wilson’s absence and Isak’s possible absence indicate that summer signing The only recognised striker for Newcastle in Howe’s starting lineup is Will Osula.
After completing his £15 million transfer from Sheffield United, the 21-year-old has yet to play a single minute for the Magpies this season, but Howe is pleased with the “progress” he has made with the team.
Howe also has Anthony Gordon at his disposal, who can play as a central striker, as he demonstrated in the second half of Newcastle’s victory over Wolves after Isak was substituted.
Gordon and Osula could start up front against Fulham.
Howe responded, “That leaves Anthony [Gordon], who did a really good job against Wolves, and Will Osula, who has done well since he’s been with us,” when asked who may step in if both Isak and Wilson are out.
“Although he hasn’t played any minutes yet, his development has pleased us. We believe we have solid cover as he has all the necessary tools.”
Howe went on to say of Gordon, “We follow a thorough approach that can be customised for each individual.
“He is an extremely cerebral player, but we would need to work on his movements. He can play any position among the front three. He is capable of adapting. Without a question, I would.”
While Sven Botman and Jamaal Lascelles continue to be long-term ACL injury absences, Howe has stated that midfielder Lewis Miley is “back on the grass” but still “a long way off” a comeback.
With a win at Fulham, Newcastle can take the lead in the Premier League standings before leaders Manchester City play second-place Arsenal on Sunday.