Newcastle head coach Eddie Howe has provided a few crucial updates on his squad’s fitness ahead of their upcoming Premier League clash against Fulham at Craven Cottage.
Speaking to the press, Howe discussed star striker Alexander Isak, who picked up a foot injury and was substituted in last weekend’s victory against Wolves.
Howe explained that the decision to remove the Swedish striker was precautionary, citing an unusual eye injury and a knock to the foot: “It was a strange one with his eye, the ball just grazed it.
“We felt at the time that was the main reason for him coming off the pitch. He took a knock to his foot as well, and it’s a combination of the two. We’ll make a decision today.”
Howe did confirm that Callum Wilson will definitely not be available for the Fulham match.
The England international has been sidelined but could return after the international break.
Eddie Howe on Alexander Isak:
“The ball grazed his eye, we thought that was the main reason for him coming off the pitch. Then we found he had a knock on his foot. We will find out more today and make a decision on him.” pic.twitter.com/avR6Dmp2c1
— Newcastle United FC (@NUFC) September 20, 2024
He added: “Callum won’t make the game. We’re looking and hoping to have him back in full training for the international break, to be ready hopefully for the games afterwards.”
Another player edging closer to a return is young midfielder Lewis Miley, though Howe admitted that the 17-year-old is still “a long way off” full fitness.
Tonali’s time
One man who could play a bigger role in the coming weeks is Sandro Tonali.
The Italian midfielder has been gradually working his way into the starting lineup after an international stint that seems to have boosted his confidence.
Howe said: “I think Sandro is in a much better place, the international games really helped him.
Eddie Howe on Sandro Tonali:
“I think Sandro is in a much better place, the international games really helped him. He’s certainly pushing to start but I want everyone pushing to start. He was very good against Wolves; we have really good competition for places in midfield.” pic.twitter.com/JU73S7Hh3d
— Newcastle United FC (@NUFC) September 20, 2024
“He’s certainly pushing to start but I want everyone pushing to start. He was very good against Wolves. We have really good competition for places in midfield.
Howe also spoke about winger Harvey Barnes, who has only started once this season but made a significant impact by scoring a late winner against Wolves last weekend.
The Toon boss praised Barnes’ contributions and work ethic, stressing that the winger’s ability to get into the right positions is key to his success.
“Starting regularly is up to him. There is no guarantee. Harvey has a real coolness in front of goal, he has this way he strikes the ball, his positioning is very good.
“You don’t score the amount of goals he does if you are not in the right areas,” Howe said, adding, “He is a really humble lad and he is prepared to work for the team. I am delighted with how he has started the season.”
The game against Fulham offers Newcastle an opportunity to temporarily go top of the Premier League table.
Howe admitted that while the chance to lead the league early in the season is motivating, it is not something the team is fixating on.
He added: “I only found that out this morning. It would be nice for us, it’s a great motivation for us. It means nothing because it’s so early [in the season] but it’s where we want to be.”
