Is Alexander Isak fit to play for Newcastle this afternoon? Toon star suffering from knee issue after withdrawing from Sweden squad

Alexander Isak is a doubt for Newcastle as they prepare to face Crystal Palace at St James’ Park this afternoon. 

The striker pulled out of the Sweden squad over the international break after struggling with a knee injury during the Magpies’ 2-2 draw with West Ham. 

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Isak travelled on international duty but was sent backCredit: getty

Isak netted a double during that game but was substituted late on with a knock, raising initial concerns over his fitness.  

Those worries still remain ahead of Eddie Howe’s side’s return to action on Saturday afternoon and the 24-year-old could miss out…

Is Isak fit to play this weekend? 

Isak is unlikely to feature for Newcastle against Crystal Palace.

He has reportedly already been playing through a minor knee injury and this fresh knock may keep him on the sidelines. 

The Sweden international has been given time to rest over the break but has not trained with the squad.

Speaking before the game, manager Howe revealed the bad news.

“Alex [Isak] hasn’t trained with us yet so we’re going to see if he’s fit and available,” he said.

So Isak will need to recover quickly if he is to be in the Newcastle squad instead of joining plenty of players in the treatment room. 

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Howe will be hoping his striker doesn’t join a long list of issuesCredit: getty

Harvey Barnes is out long-term while Sven Botman and Joe Willock are also injured but the former could be involved.

Joelinton and Callum Wilson are back to full fitness.

Meanwhile, Sandro Tonali is being investigated for illegal betting activity and may be kept out of the limelight.

Howe will not want Isak to join the long list of key players out, so he will be hoping his striker will be back fit when his side welcome Palace to St James’ Park. 

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