Alexander Isak decision made: Newcastle United starting XI vs Wolverhampton Wanderers - predicted

Newcastle United hope to have Alexander Isak available for tonight’s Premier League meeting with Wolverhampton Wanderers at St James’ Park.

There has been some slight doubt surrounding the Sweden international after he was among four players rested for Sunday’s 3-1 FA Cup third round victory over Bromley.

Isak can break one of Alan Shearer’s records this evening by becoming the first Magpies player to net in eight consecutive Premier League games.

“He will be there or thereabouts,” Eddie Howe said on the striker fitness. “We haven't seen him train yet, but fingers crossed he will be.

“He'd be desperate to play, of course. Those [scoring] runs I'm not really too focused on and not too interested in, but I understand the individuals will care deeply about them.

“I'd love Alex to continue to score. I think the most important thing for me is that the team is functioning well for him and he's functioning well for the team, the two things go hand-in-hand together.

“We have looked like scoring goals recently, that's such a big thing for our confidence levels, he's played a big part in that, hopefully that continues.”

Meanwhile, United will check on the fitness of Sven Botman, Jacob Murphy and Joe Willock.

“Yeah, we'll have a look at them again today,” said Howe. “They were left out for genuine reasons. So, all different things, but nothing major, we hope. So, minor problems that we needed to settle down, fingers crossed they'll be there or thereabouts.”

Howe, however, will definitely be without Harvey Barnes after the winger sustained a thigh muscle injury against Bromley.

Follow us
©National World Publishing Ltd. All rights reserved.Cookie SettingsTerms and ConditionsPrivacy notice