Alexander Isak struggles as Newcastle United player temporarily withdraws from squad - internationals

Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak was in action for Sweden as they faced Portugal.

Newcastle United duo Alexander Isak and Emil Krafth were in international action for Sweden on Thursday night.

Isak completed a full 90 minutes as Sweden lost 5-2 to Portugal in what was former Magpies forward Jon Dahl Tomasson's first game in charge. Krafth, meanwhile, was introduced from the bench on the hour-mark.

Sweden were 4-0 down via goals from Rafael Leao, Matheus Nunes, Bruno Fernandes, Bruma before Viktor Gyokeres pulled one back. Goncalo Ramos restored Portugal's four-goal lead but Gustaf Nilsson added another consolation in stoppage time.

Isak was trialled in a No.10 position with Gyokeres deployed as the central striker, however struggled to make an impact.

"When I got down a little deeper in the middle, then I almost felt like an 'eight'," said Isak. "It's a bit unusual for me. But it is important to shoulder the role. It may not be one hundred percent the first match. Hopefully it will be better in others."

The 24-year-old is next in action when his nation host Albania on Monday before returning to Tyneside ahead of the Premier League fixture against West Ham United at St James' Park.

A number of Newcastle's international players feature over the weekend as Anthony Gordon's England host Bruno Guimaraes' Brazil at Wembley.

However, one player who won't be involved is Jamal Lewis, who is currently on loan at Watford. The left-back has been ruled out of Northern Ireland's friendly against Romania this evening but is hopeful of returning for the trip to Scotland on Tuesday.

Here's a comprehensive round-up of the Newcastle players called up for international duty and when they're in action:

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