Alexander Isak latest as Newcastle United handed major concern ahead of Liverpool clash

The Sweden international was named in the starting XI for the Magpies’ trip to Crystal Palace but his afternoon lasted just 22 minutes.

Isak appeared to withdraw with a hip injury, which he picked up in the early stages. He attempted to continue after treatment but came off less than five minutes later.

Harvey Barnes replaced Isak in a switch that saw Anthony Gordon move into the central striker role. Barnes was deployed on the right hand side of with Joelinton remaining on the left.

That makes Isak a major doubt for the match against Premier League leaders Liverpool at St James’ Park on Wednesday night.

Since arriving at Newcastle for a club-record £63million in August 2022, Isak boasts an impressive record of 40 goals in 80 appearances. He is the club’s top scorer this season with five goals in all competitions.

Eddie Howe has Callum Wilson back available but the United head coach’s decision to bring on Barnes instead of Wilson suggests the England striker is still lacking in fitness after four months out.