Worrying Updates from Newcastle United’s training ground revealed as Isak could miss out on final top4 decider
Newcastle United approach their final Premier League clash of the season knowing that victory would secure their place in next year’s UEFA Champions League. Sitting fourth in the table going into Sunday’s decisive match, Eddie Howe’s side find themselves in a strong position in the race for Europe’s elite competition. However, with just a narrow margin separating them from chasing teams, any misstep could prove costly and derail their hopes of a long-awaited return to the Champions League.
Last weekend presented Newcastle with their first opportunity to confirm qualification, but they came up short against title contenders Arsenal. The 1-0 defeat at the Emirates Stadium – courtesy of a brilliant long-range goal from Declan Rice – ensured that Newcastle’s celebrations would have to wait. With just one game remaining, the Magpies now face a high-stakes encounter at St James’ Park against Everton, a match that has turned into a must-win occasion.
The pressure is immense, but Newcastle will take comfort in their strong home form and the passionate support of the St James’ Park faithful. Still, all eyes will be on the fitness of star striker Alexander Isak, whose availability remains uncertain. Isak was a surprise omission from the squad that faced Arsenal, ruled out on the morning of the game due to a minor groin strain.
“It was a very late decision,” Howe said when asked about Isak’s absence. “He felt some stiffness the night before after dinner. At first, we weren’t overly concerned, but we decided to go for a scan as a precaution.” Isak’s absence was felt on the pitch, with Callum Wilson leading the line in his place. Unfortunately, the Magpies failed to score, and the defeat continued a troubling trend: Newcastle have not won a single match this season without Isak in the starting XI.
Ongoing Concerns Over Isak’s Fitness
With Champions League qualification on the line, Newcastle are desperate to have Isak fit and ready to lead the attack. As the weekend approaches, speculation around his availability continues to grow. Earlier this week, the club released a series of photos from training sessions in the build-up to the Everton clash – but notably, Isak was absent from all of them.
While the lack of images featuring the Swedish forward doesn’t confirm he didn’t train, it has raised alarm bells among fans. Many are hoping this is merely a tactical ploy, a bit of psychological gamesmanship from Eddie Howe and his coaching staff as they look to keep their cards close to their chest ahead of a vital fixture. However, for supporters anxiously awaiting updates, the uncertainty remains unsettling.
The next clear indication of Isak’s status could come during Howe’s pre-match press conference on Friday. Though that may bring more clarity, any suggestion of lingering fitness concerns could cause a stir among fans who know just how important Isak is to the team’s success.
Positive Signs From Sweden
One potential sign of encouragement comes from outside of Newcastle. Isak has been included in Sweden’s latest squad for their upcoming friendly matches against Hungary and Algeria. The announcement suggests that the striker’s groin issue may not be severe enough to rule him out for an extended period. Sweden’s head coach – and former Newcastle player – Jon Dahl Tomasson offered praise for Isak and hinted at his optimism about the striker’s condition.
“Alexander has had a great season in a team that has fought hard every step of the way,” Tomasson said. “We like what we see when we study him. This is a good opportunity to test him at the international level.”
While the final decision on his participation in the international break will depend on how his recovery progresses, the fact that he was selected suggests a level of fitness that bodes well for Newcastle’s hopes on Sunday. If Sweden’s medical team is in communication with Newcastle and felt comfortable including him in the squad, it may indicate that Isak could be close to a return.
Squad News and Selection Notes
In other news regarding Swedish international call-ups, defender Emil Krafth has not been selected for the upcoming fixtures, indicating that he may still be working his way back to full match fitness or simply isn’t in the national team’s current plans.
As Newcastle prepare for their most important game of the season, the fitness of key players like Isak will remain in sharp focus. A win on Sunday not only guarantees Champions League football but also caps a remarkable campaign under Eddie Howe – one that has seen the Magpies transform into genuine top-four contenders and re-establish themselves among the Premier League elite.
But standing in their way is a determined Everton side fighting for survival. With so much riding on the result, all eyes will be on St James’ Park for a dramatic finale that could define Newcastle United’s season – and shape the club’s immediate future on the European stage.