Eddie Howe issues Alexander Isak injury update at Newcastle United ahead of Brentford

The striker, signed from Real Sociedad for a club-record £60million fee in the summer, suffered a thigh injury while on international duty with Sweden earlier this month – and Eddie Howe was asked for an update ahead of tomorrow’s home game against Brentford.

Isak – who has scored two goals from three appearances – is being “held back” by the club’s medical team out of an abundance of caution, according to Howe.

"He suffered a muscle problem to his thigh,” said United's head coach. “The scan wasn’t overly bad, but the medical team are just being cautious.”

Asked for a timescale on his return, Howe added: “Unknown at the moment. He’s presenting very well. He’s running on grass, he’s increasing his speed. He’s in a good place. The medical team are just holding him back from any more than that. Hopefully, it won’t be too long.”