Eddie Howe has revealed Alexander Isak is “doing very well” in his recovery from injury.
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The Swede made an instant impact on Tyneside following a club-record £60m move to St James’ Park over the course of the summer, scoring two goals in his opening three games.
A thigh injury first picked up during the international break, however, has since ruled him out of action. Isak has missed the last eight Premier League games, though is expected to return after the World Cup break.
The 23-year-old has jetted out to Saudi Arabia as those in Howe’s squad not playing in the World Cup prepare for the second-half of the season with some warm weather training.
What did Eddie Howe say about Isak?
Speaking to the club’s official in-house media channel, the head coach said: “Alex is just on the pitch here running and doing very well.
“I think we were really determined to keep the group together and include all the players that have respective injuries to bring them closer to the group and make them feel part of the team.
“Alex hasn’t been with us long and this is his first time to really bond with the squad. So we’re delighted with how his rehab is going.”
How important is it Newcastle get Isak back?
While Newcastle have certainly proven they can impress without Isak, it’s imperative he gets back to full fitness quickly.
Relying on Callum Wilson to keep fit for the rest of the campaign seems somewhat optimistic given the fact he’s already picking up slight problems while away with England in Qatar.
With Newcastle expected to be somewhat quieter in this January window compared to the last, further attacking reinforcement looks far more likely to come in the summer. Now that Champions League qualification is a realistic possibility, Howe needs all hands on deck.
