Eddie Howe is sure Alexander Isak will have recovered from a head injury in time for Newcastle United’s game against Bournemouth this weekend.
The 23-year-old missed the Magpies’ 1-1 draw with West Ham on Saturday night after suffering a concussion in the win over Southampton.
While the forward had claimed that he was fine in the aftermath of the incident, he failed to make the match day squad against West Ham.
Newcastle struggled without him, and really would have benefitted from his presence had he been available.
Next up for the Magpies is Bournemouth away, and Howe has provided a promising update on the Sweden international’s fitness.
Eddie Howe’s injury update regarding Alexander Isak.
After the 1-1 draw with West Ham, Howe spoke to the Northern Echo and was asked about Isak’s situation.
“Unfortunately, we had to follow concussion protocols with him [Isak], so immediately after the (Southampton) game we knew we would be without him today,” Howe said.
“It was a big blow for us because he’s looked so good when he’s come onto the pitch in recent weeks. He feels good, he feels fine, and I don’t think there’s any issues with him.
“I’m sure he’ll be fine for next weekend.”
Newcastle follow concussion protocol with Isak.
Once Isak had shown signs of a concussion last week, there was no chance that he could feature against West Ham. The FA’s guidelines for concussion state that a player cannot return until at least six days after the incident.
That is why Howe knew straight away that he would be without Isak on Saturday night, although he did not confirm his absence in his pre-match press conference.
Hopefully the £63million man is rested and ready to go again this weekend, when the Magpies head to the south coast to take on the Cherries.
Isak scored his second Toon goal against Bournemouth earlier in the season, and will hope to add another to his tally.
He has looked really bright since returning from a thigh injury, and it was a real shame to see him miss the clash with West Ham.
