Eddie Howe issues Newcastle United injury update on Alexander Isak
Eddie Howe’s issued an update on Alexander Isak at Newcastle United – after the striker was left out against West Ham United.
Isak wasn’t involved in this afternoon’s 1-1 Premier League draw against West Ham United at St James’s Park. Callum Wilson was on target for fourth-placed Newcastle.
The 23-year-old had been forced off against Southampton four days earlier after being struck on the head by the ball, and Howe – who was coy about his availability before the game – has revealed that the club was following concussion protocols.
"Unfortunately, we had to follow concussion protocols with him, so immediately after the game we knew we’d be without him today," said United’s head coach.
“Big blow for us, because he’s looked so good when he’s come on to 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 week (against Bournemouth on February 11).”
Meanwhile, West Ham manager felt that his relegation-threatened team deserved a point for their efforts.
"We deserve some credit, because we’ve not been playing so well,” said Moyes. “I thought we played very well today.
“They’re a big, big side. They can put the ball on top of you when they don’t go round you. Nayef (Aguerd) had a brilliant tackle (to stop Wilson). Part of your job is to defend, well and we did defend well today.
"A draw at Newcastle isn’t the worst result. We’d have liked to win, but we’re up against a team who are in good form at the moment.”