Eddie Howe has offered an update on Alexander Isak’s future after confirming he will not be involved against Liverpool on Monday night
Newcastle United boss Howe has admitted that Isak’s ongoing transfer saga is casting a shadow over his side’s preparations for Monday night’s Premier League showdown with Liverpool — a fixture already fans are calling the “Isak Derby”.
The Swedish striker, who was named in the PFA Team of the Season this week, has been at the centre of a dramatic tug-of-war between Newcastle and Liverpool this summer.
The Reds have already seen a £110m bid rejected, with Newcastle holding firm until a replacement striker is secured, but the striker has made it clear he wants to leave the club and is currently training on his own.
Earlier this week, Isak released a statement accusing Newcastle of breaking promises made to him.
That was swiftly followed by a Newcastle statement expressing disappointment in his actions and claiming he would be likely to stay put at St James’ Park — a move Howe described as “a sad moment.” in his pre-match press conference.
“[Isak’s social media statement] was a sad moment.
My preference is that these things do not happen publicly. They are better dealt with behind closed doors. But needs must. The club has spoken, and justifiably so in that moment. He’s contracted to us. He’s our player.”
Despite the tension, Howe remains hopeful that the situation can be salvaged.
“My wish is that he would be playing on Monday night with us. He won’t be, and that’s regrettable at this moment. But 100 percent, I want him back in a Newcastle shirt.”
The Magpies boss also hinted that the standoff is moving towards a conclusion one way or another.
Liverpool’s visit to St James’ Park only intensifies the spotlight. Isak’s absence for such a high-profile fixture is a bitter pill for Howe,
“He won’t be part of the squad this weekend. The club has to act in the best interests of Newcastle United.
There is always two sides to a story. We will see where we are in a week’s time. I hope I can work with him again.”
For Liverpool, the timing of the saga could hardly be more significant. With just over a week left of the transfer window, Arne Slot is desperate to strengthen his forward line before Salah’s Africa Cup of Nations commitments later in the season.
Isak remains the number-one target, but Newcastle’s reluctance to sell has forced Liverpool to consider whether to raise their bid or walk away.
As Monday approaches, the clash has been framed less as Liverpool’s first major test of their title defence and more as a battle over Isak’s future.
For now, Howe’s message is clear — while Liverpool arrive at St James’ Park without their number one target in red, Newcastle will line up without their talisman in black and white.
