Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has confirmed that Alexander Isak and Jacob Murphy are facing significant spells on the sidelines after sustaining injuries in the recent Champions League defeat to Borussia Dortmund. Isak aggravated a groin problem, while Murphy is set to require shoulder surgery.
Isak, who cost the club £63 million, limped off after just 15 minutes in the 1-0 loss at St James' Park. Howe stated that the injury is a recurrence of the issue he suffered at West Ham, and initial assessments indicate the damage is not as severe as first feared.
Speaking after the 2-2 draw at Wolves, Howe said: 'Alex is still where he is. He's aggravated the injury he suffered at West Ham and we'll wait and see whether he'll be fit before the international break. There's a high chance he won't, but we'll see.' The Sweden international is likely to miss the Carabao Cup trip to Manchester United and the Champions League clash at Borussia Dortmund.
Meanwhile, Murphy, who left the pitch with a shoulder problem against Dortmund, is a major doubt for the coming weeks. Howe revealed: 'Jacob we fear might need an operation on his shoulder.' The Magpies travel to Old Trafford on Wednesday for a Carabao Cup fourth-round replay of last season's final.
