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6 hours ago
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Alexander Isak’s availability for Newcastle United’s decisive clash with Everton remains uncertain, but there is cautious optimism after a key development this week.
The Swedish striker, was a surprise absentee in Newcastle’s 1-0 defeat at Arsenal last Sunday Club media cited a “minor groin issue,” while manager Eddie Howe clarified that Isak had trained normally but developed pain later.
“He only really felt pain after training [on Saturday]. He felt fine during the training but then had a bit of stiffness. He went for a scan on Sunday morning, purely as a precaution really, but then it became obvious that he wasn’t going to be fit to play.
“It is unknown [at this moment in time] whether Alex [Isak] will be fit for the Everton game. I don’t know what will happen, a lot will depend on how he reacts in the next few days. I think he has had a couple of groin issues, on either side,.
Now, in a crucial development, Isak has now been included in Sweden’s squad for their June friendlies against Hungary and Algeria.
National team manager Jon Dahl Tomasson named the forward in his 26-man list on Tuesday. That inclusion suggests the injury is not that serious, and if there were any major concern, Sweden would almost certainly have left him out.
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This follows a season where Isak has battled groin issues on both sides. Howe acknowledged it's a recurring problem but stressed it doesn’t require surgery—just targeted strengthening.
While there is no guarantee he’ll start on May 25 this call-up hints at positive progress.
Newcastle desperately needs him. Without their key man, they’ve failed to win in four key Premier League matches, scoring only once (D2 L2).
Might get a better idea on Friday on Alexander Isak situation
Eddie Howe is set to face the media on Friday morning, and that's when clarity is expected on Alexander Isak’s situation.
Until then, it’s all guesswork. Fans and pundits alike will be watching closely for any hint—fit or sidelined.
Sunday’s Champions League decider looms, and every word from Howe could shift the mood dramatically.
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