‘Probably not’ - Newcastle United issue Alexander Isak fitness warning ahead of Wolves clash

Eddie Howe is set to choose between Callum Wilson and Alexander Isak to lead Newcastle United’s attack against Wolverhampton Wanderers on Sunday afternoon (kick-off 4:30pm).

Who starts as the central striker versus Julen Lopetegui’s side has been a major talking point this week. Wilson has scored just once in his last 14 matches, whereas Isak has looked lively in back-to-back substitute appearances against both Manchester clubs.

Indeed, it is far from a straightforward decision for Howe. The Magpies’ head coach has a long relationship with Wilson - dating back to their Bournemouth days - while Isak has struggled with a thigh injury and a couple of other setbacks since his £60million club-record move last summer.

It is because of that that why Howe believes Isak is, as it stands, still not ready to play a full 90 minutes.

Howe, speaking ahead this weekend’s fixture, said: “He [Isak] wants to play, like every player. I’ve not had huge conversations about his game time, it’s been about keeping him fit after his serious injury and building his confidence levels and training levels, to the level he can play at.

“I feel he is there, but is he 100 per-cent ready to play 90 minutes on a consistent basis? Probably not. I have been delighted by his attitude. I think he’s in a good place.”

The Swede started consecutive games against Bournemouth and Liverpool after Wilson picked up a minor hamstring issue. Howe, however, decided to recall Wilson for the Carabao Cup final and retained his spot a week later for the trip to Man City.

When will Isak nail down a regular spot in the starting XI? That is up to the player himself, according to Howe, who believes the 23-year-old can play in a number of different positions across the front line.

Howe said: “Alex will decide that by how he performs. He did very well when he came on last week and has trained well this week. On his position, I don’t see that as an issue.

“He is a top talent who can play in different roles, he is not one-dimensional. He is not defined by one position, but whatever position he plays, he has to play well.”

Howe added: “He’s in a good frame of mind. He’s positive and I think he’s positive because he’s seeing he’s at a great club, he’s in a great moment now to hopefully push on and really show all his qualities.

“When you’re behind the scenes and you’re seeing it every day, let me tell you, he’s an outstanding talent and we’re absolutely delighted he’s here and we know that we’ve got a great player for the future.”