Sep 20 (Askume) – Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak is ruled out of Saturday’s game against Fulham because of injury, but head coach Eddie said midfielder Sandro Tonali will serve a 10-month ban for a betting violation
Sweden’s Isak was taken off at half-time in Sunday’s 2-1 win over Wolves with what Howe thought was an eye problem but it was a foot injury.
“His eyes were weird. The ball went over his eyes and we thought that was the main reason he got out. And then we found out it was his leg,” Howe told reporters on Friday.
“We’ll learn more today and make a decision based on that.”
However, former AC Milan midfielder Tonali, who played two matches for Italy earlier this month , came on as a substitute on Sunday and impressed Howe with his performance.
“I think Sandro is in better shape and the international games have really helped him. Of course he will push for the starting line-up, but I want everyone to push for the starting line-up… we have very good competition for the midfield positions,” the host coach said.
Newcastle United, who are unbeaten in three of four Premier League games, will also be without midfielder Lewis Miley, who has not yet fully returned to training after breaking his metatarsal bone in July.
Howe said England striker Callum Wilson, who has been sidelined with a back injury, hoped to return to full training before next month’s international break.
