Eddie Howe has discussed the latest news regarding Alexander Isak ahead of Saturday’s Premier League showdown between Newcastle and Aston Villa.
Isak, 25, is eager to leave St James’ Park for Liverpool – who had a bid worth £110million turned down for the striker earlier this summer.
Eddie Howe has discussed the latest news regarding Alexander Isak ahead of Saturday’s Premier League showdown between Newcastle and Aston Villa
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Isak is adamant he won’t ever play for Newcastle again.
It’s also already been confirmed that he won’t feature in Saturday’s clash with Villa, despite the striker being fit.
And Howe has now revealed Isak’s situation remains unchanged, despite speculation linking him with Liverpool continuing to rumble on.
“[There’s] no change this week,” said the Englishman, who will be hoping to steer Newcastle to the Champions League for the third time in four years.
Alexander Isak is adamant he won’t play for Newcastle again
| PA“I don’t think Isak would have done as well without that, his team mates, the supporters – he recognises that, he’s an intelligent person.”
On whether the rest of the squad had grown closer as a result of the Isak saga, he continued: “Sometimes these things can have that effect.
“I think we were really close anyway. I don’t know if I can say it’s brought us closer together. But sometimes these things can unify the group.
“Without Alex, everyone is going to have to step up and give more.”
Howe was also quizzed on injuries.
He confirmed that everybody is available for selection barring Joe Willock, who is nearing a return to action.
“[It’s great to be back. You look through the summer and think it’s gonna be a long break but it flashes by,” he said.
“A lot has happened. We’ve been busy and active. We’re pleased to be here.
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Newcastle star Joe Willock won’t be involved in Saturday’s Premier League opener with Aston Villa
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“Joe [Willock] is not too far away but everyone is available. We’ve got a good squad in terms of injury news. The majority have come through pre-season.”
And when asked about new signing Malick Thiaw potentially being involved against Villa, Howe added: “Malick will be part of the squad. He’s trained for two days.
“It’s never easy coming in at the end of pre-season when our work is almost done but in the little bits we’ve seen, we’ve signed a top quality player.”