Newcastle boss Eddie Howe has provided an update on the Alexander Isak saga and admitted that it was a ‘distraction’ during pre-season.
Isak is currently on strike as he looks to secure a move to Liverpool before the transfer window closes on September 1.
The striker wasn’t part of the Newcastle squad for their opening game of the Premier League season away to Aston Villa.
Howe wants Isak to play but it seems highly unlikely that he will feature in upcoming fixtures against Liverpool or Leeds.
Asked for an update on the situation with Isak, Howe told TNT Sports: ‘No different to how its been for a number of weeks really. He’s not here today, we’re without him, and we’re adapting to that and still trying to be competitive.
‘Today will be a big test for us. Aston Villa did very well last year, we know how difficult this ground is to come to and play but we’re looking forward to it. I think it’s a strong team we picked so fingers crossed we go well.’
Newcastle boss Eddie Howe admitted that the Alexander Isak saga has been a distraction
Isak is currently refusing to play or train with Newcastle as he looks to join Liverpool
Liverpool boss Arne Slot wants to secure the signing of Isak before the transfer window closes
In the absence of Isak, winger Anthony Gordon was chosen to start as a central striker for Newcastle against Villa.
Howe said: ‘We believe in the team that we picked today and we believe in all the players we have in our squad. There’s been distractions during pre-season but that’s all been for me, not so much the players. The players should be in good condition to play today.
Asked if he feels let down regarding the Isak situation, Howe said: ‘I don’t think now’s the time to discuss that, we’re about to play a game. All my emotions are towards this game and making sure we’re competitive, driven, motivated. This is a tough place to come if you’re one or two per cent down. We’ve got to be there mentally today, me included, the whole coaching staff. There’s no feeling of anything other than wanting to give our best today.’
Howe revealed in his pre-match press conference that he wanted Isak to train and play.
He said: ‘Of course, I’ve said many times I want him to train and play. I’ve had those conversations with him, but the details of these conversations need to remain private.’
‘It (training alone) is not something you ever want to see. You want to see him with the squad, you want to see him happy and enjoying his football. He is contracted to us. He is here, so for me, that is an unfortunate situation.’
On August 1 Liverpool had a bid of £110million plus add-ons rejected for Isak, who missed the club’s pre-season tour of Asia.
Howe expressed his belief that there could still be a way back for Isak at Newcastle.
Howe believes that despite the situation there could be a way back for Isak at Newcastle
He said: ‘Yes, I believe there is. But of course, discussions and talks would need to take place for that to happen. But that’s for another day. Today is Aston Villa and making sure we perform as well as we can.’
