Alexander Isak has been declared fit for Newcastle United's weekend trip to face West Ham United, easing fears over the striker's availability. The Sweden international was substituted during the Magpies' FA Cup defeat to Brighton, prompting concerns, but head coach Eddie Howe has confirmed he is ready to play.
'He's fine,' Howe said on Friday. 'He came off feeling fatigued, a tightness in his body. But he's trained every day this week.' Isak, who has scored 22 goals in 31 appearances this season, missed Newcastle's previous Premier League match against Liverpool with a groin injury but has returned to full training.
However, Howe delivered more disappointing news regarding three other key players. Anthony Gordon will miss Newcastle's next three fixtures, including the Carabao Cup final against Liverpool, while defender Lewis Hall has been ruled out for the remainder of the season with a foot injury. Sven Botman, meanwhile, requires knee surgery and will be sidelined for approximately eight weeks.
'We're really disappointed for Lewis,' Howe added. 'We are devastated for him. He had so much to look forward to — the cup final and internationals — and it's a big blow.' On Botman, he said: 'He was very close to the Brighton game but felt something in his knee. He needs a small operation to clear out fluid and should be back in about eight weeks.'
Despite the setbacks, Howe remains upbeat about his squad's depth. 'It has been one of those weeks that challenges you, but you need a level head. We still have a very strong squad; it's someone else's opportunity.'
