Newcastle boss Eddie Howe has given a few key updates on his side’s fitness ahead of their Premier League clash with Fulham at Craven Cottage.
Speaking to the media, Howe spoke to star striker Alexander Isak, who suffered a foot injury and was sidelined during last weekend’s win over Wolves.
Howe explained that the decision to send the Swedish striker off was important, citing a rare eye injury and a blow to his foot: “It was a strange thing with his eye, the ball was just eating away.”
“At that time we saw that it was the main reason for his exit from the field. He also knocked on his feet, and it is a combination of both. We will take a decision today.”
Howe has confirmed that Callum Wilson will not be available for the Fulham game.
The England player has played but may return after the break.
Eddie Howe on Alexander Isak:
“The ball was eating his eye, we thought that was the reason why he left the field. Then we found out that he knocked on his foot. We will find out more today and make a decision about him.” pic.twitter.com/avR6Dmp2c1
– Newcastle United FC (@NUFC) September 20, 2024
He added: “Callum will not make it. We are looking and hoping that he will return to full training during the international break, so that he will be ready for the games after that.”
Another player close to a return is youngster Lewis Miley, although Howe admitted the 17-year-old is still “a long way off” from full fitness.
It’s Tonali’s time
One man who could play a big role in the coming weeks is Sandro Tonali.
The Italian midfielder has been gradually working his way into the starting line-up after playing all over the country which seems to have boosted his confidence.
Howe said: “I think Sandro is in a better place, the international games have helped him a lot.
Eddie Howe on Sandro Tonali:
“I think Sandro is in the best place, international games have helped him a lot. Of course he pushes to start but I want everyone who pushes to start. He was very good against wolves; we have a really good competition for places in the midfield.” pic.twitter.com/JU73S7Hh3d
– Newcastle United FC (@NUFC) September 20, 2024
“Of course he is forced to start, but I want everyone who pushes to start. He was very good against Wolves. We have really good competition for midfield positions.
Howe also spoke about midfielder Harvey Barnes, who has only started once this season but made a big impact with a late winner against Wolves last weekend.
The Toon manager praised Barnes’ contributions and his work ethic, stressing that the winger’s ability to get into the right positions is key to his success.
“It’s always up to him to start. There is no guarantee. Harvey has a real coolness in front of goal, he has this way of hitting the ball, his positioning is very good.
“You don’t score a lot of goals if you’re not in the right places,” said Howe, adding, “He’s a really humble guy and he’s willing to work for the team. I’m happy with the way he started the season.”
The game against Fulham gives Newcastle a chance to move up the Premier League table for a while.
Howe admitted that although the chance to lead the league at the start of the season is encouraging, it is not something the team is ready for.
He added: “I only found out this morning. It would be good for us, it is a great encouragement for us. It doesn’t matter because it’s still early [in the season] but that’s where we want to be.”
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