The reason why Alexander Isak missed Newcastle United's Premier League clash against Fulham

Newcastle United were without Alexander Isak for their Premier League clash against Fulham at St James' Park.

While Eddie Howe brought Dan Burn back into his defence and Sean Longstaff into his midfield, the Magpies' head coach was unable to rotate his attack with Isak unavailable.

It is understood the Swede is still feeling the after-effects of the groin injury he recently had and has been left out of the squad as a precaution. Callum Wilson leads the line.

Isak started five consecutive games against Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain, Manchester United, Everton and Tottenham Hotspur before dropping to the bench for Wednesday's Champions League exit at the hands of AC Milan.

He was brought on as a 63rd-minute substitute in place of Anthony Gordon, who starts despite feeling tightness in his hamstring against Milan.

Howe named two changes to his starting line-up for the visit of Fulham with Burn and Longstaff coming in for the suspended Kieran Trippier and 17-year-old midfielder Lewis Miley.

Martin Dubravka continued in goal behind a back four of Tino Livramento, Fabian Schar, Jamaal Lascelles and Burn. Longstaff formed a midfield three alongside Bruno Guimaraes and Joelinton.

And in attack, Gordon and Almiron start either side of Wilson.