Newcastle United confirm ‘longer-term’ Alexander Isak injury blow

Alexander Isak won’t feature for Newcastle United before the World Cup break. Speaking recently, Eddie Howe believed that to be the case but has now confirmed the striker will be out for five to six weeks.

The club’s record signing, who joined from La Liga side Real Sociedad for £58million in the summer, scored two goals in his opening three games before picking up a thigh injury on international duty with Sweden.

Isak has not played since scoring a penalty in the 1-1 draw at home to Bournemouth last month. His absence will continue but Howe is hopeful the 23-year-old will be available for the Boxing Day trip to Leicester City - United’s first league game after the Qatar World Cup.

“Alex has been having a couple of injections into his thigh,” the Newcastle head coach said. “I believe that’s gone well and the medical team are happy with where he currently stands but it is a longer-term injury, I think it’s a five to six weeks injury.

“As I said before, he won’t be back before the World Cup break but we’re hopeful as we begin our second pre-season, he’s there ready to train.”