Big Alexander Isak update as four Newcastle United players ruled out of Bournemouth trip

Newcastle United will welcome Alexander Isak back into the matchday squad against Bournemouth on Saturday (kick-off 5:30pm)

The Magpies’ club-record signing was forced to miss last weekend’s 1-1 draw at home to West Ham United due to concussion protocols.

Isak was substituted during the Carabao Cup semi-final victory over Southampton after taking a blow to the head by blocking James Ward-Prowse’s free-kick.

“Yes he will be,” said Eddie Howe when asked if the 23-year-old will be available. “He’s fully recovered, no problems.

“Initially, he got hit the ball on the head. He didn’t feel too bad but we had to follow (concussion) protocols. He’s been good this week.”

Bruno Guimaraes serves the second of his three-match on the South Coast, so misses out alongside the injured Matt Targett (heel), Javier Manquillo (knee) and Emil Krafth (ACL).

Howe returns to the Vitality Stadium for the first since leaving his role as Bournemouth manager three years ago.

“We’ve been preparing for the game as usual. From the emotional side, it’s difficult to predict how I’ll feel walking out to a stadium I know so well and so many people I know so well.

“But for the moment, we’re preparing as we would for any other Premier League game to make sure we get our players ready for what will be a really tough game.

“I know from the other side preparing for a game as Bournemouth manager, it’s a special place to play football when it’s rocking. We need to be ready for that kind of atmosphere.”