Sweden manager issues ‘disappointing’ injury decision on Newcastle United star

An injury has forced Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak to leave the Sweden squad as the Magpies hope for positive news on their record signing.

The 23-year-old forward has scored two goals in his opening three games for United and hoped to carry that momentum into Nations League fixtures with Serbia and Slovenia.

However, Isak sat out training earlier this week with what the Swedish FA described as ‘a little feeling’ and that caused doubt over his availability for the fixtures over the coming days.

The news was a major concern for United manager Eddie Howe as he awaits news on the fitness of key attacking duo Callum Wilson and Allan Saint-Maximin.

It has now been revealed Isak has been allowed to leave the Sweden squad and he will be assessed upon his return to Tyneside as the Magpies look to confirm the severity of the injury.

Sweden manager Janne Andersson confirmed Isak has now left the squad and stressed it was ‘the right decision’ for the United star.

He said: “It is of course sad mainly for Alex but also for us as a team.

“After speaking with both our medical team and Alex, it is the right decision for him to leave.

“I hope he is back as soon as possible. Currently, we will not take out any new players. Now the full focus is on the preparations against Serbia on Saturday.”

Isak also spoke out after the decision, saying: “It feels very sad to have to leave the team.

“I had longed to play in the blue and yellow shirt again. I wish the boys the best of luck on Saturday and Tuesday.”

Callum Wilson narrowly missed out on a place in the Magpies squad for last weekend’s 1-1 home draw with Bournemouth and there are high hopes he will return for next Saturday’s visit to Fulham.

However, that game could come too soon for Saint-Maximin after he suffered a ‘very minor setback’ in his recovery from the injury he suffered in the recent draw at Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Speaking after Saturday’s game, Magpies boss Howe said: “He’s had a very minor setback with the physios.

“So, whether or not after the international break, he’ll be fit, is slightly unclear, but it’s certainly not long-term. But not clear if he’ll be fit for our next game yet.