Eddie Howe would love to be able to call upon one of the best strikers in the world. Howe was asked whether the Swede would be fined after Isak sat out the goalless draw against Aston Villa on the opening day and the Newcastle head coach said that "other people are dealing with that issue".

Alexander Isak's future has been a huge distraction for Newcastle this summer, and while the team performed well, his absence was costly at Aston Villa.

Alexander Isak was left out of Newcastle’s squad for its opening game of the Premier League season at Aston Villa.

Alexander Isak has been defender by his national team coach who said 'Alex is a great guy and very professional' despite him going on strike.

Waugh: Howe was afforded an extension under Dan Ashworth during the summer of 2022 and, in secret, he was given another deal the following off-season. That was only revealed in July last year by Eales when he was asked directly by The Athletic during a video call with reporters.

Alexander Isak remains unavailable for selection for Newcastle heading into the start of the Premier League season amid ongoing uncertainty over the Sweden striker’s future at the club.

Sky Sports football writers analyse Friday & Saturdays Premier League action as Bournemouth expose reoccurring defensive weakness in Liverpools masterplan; Newcastle struggle for goal threat without Alexander Isak;

Wayne Rooney thinks Liverpool could be put off signing Alexander Isak from Newcastle United during this summer's transfer window amid one key concern.