Alexander Isak fitness update after Newcastle United star ruled out for 10 games

Eddie Howe says Newcastle United star Alexander Isak is “very good physically” as he manages a recurring groin issue.

Isak scored his 20th and 21st goals of the campaign during last weekend’s 4-0 win over Tottenham Hotspur - becoming the first Magpies player to reach that tally in the top-flight since Alan Shearer 20 years ago.

That is perhaps even more impressive when you consider the Swede has missed 10 games in total this season with the same injury. He first picked up the groin problem in October and has also missed a row of games in December and February.

But since returning from his latest spell out, the 24-year-old has netted seven goals in as many Premier League appearances, putting himself in the running for the golden boot award alongside Manchester City’s Erling Haaland, Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins and Cole Palmer of Chelsea.

With Callum Wilson unavailable for the last two months, Howe has been unable to rest Isak which might have been a concern. But the United boss is pleased with how the player, who has completed 90 minutes in each of his last six matches, has handled the demands.

“I think he’s very good physically,” said Howe. “He’s had a difficult schedule. He went away and played two games for Sweden.

“We haven’t got the luxury of taking him off and giving him a rest due to the fact Callum’s not there or the lack of wide options as well because we could use Anthony [Gordon] further forward so I think he has had to go and play the minutes.

“At the moment he looks really good. Of course, we’re trying to manage him between games and make sure he’s there when we need him. So far, so good.”

Isak and Newcastle will be back in action after a 10-day break when they travel to Crystal Palace on Wednesday night. The game could see Wilson return to the bench after the England international was spotted in full training earlier this week.

United currently sixth in the league table as they look to secure European qualification during the remaining six matches.