Striker missed the match against Arsenal, with Callum Wilson leading the line in his absence
Newcastle United face a nervous wait over the fitness of Alexander Isak after the in-form striker missed their crucial Premier League clash against Arsenal due to a groin injury.
The Swedish international has been one of the standout performers of the season, scoring 27 goals in all competitions to keep Newcastle firmly in the race for Champions League qualification. But as the Magpies looked to seal their place in Europe’s elite competition and even wrest second-place from the Gunners, they were forced to line up at the Emirates without their talisman.
Isak’s absence from the squad raised eyebrows and sparked fresh speculation. The striker has been linked to several top clubs including Arsenal, a situation that has frustrated manager Eddie Howe.
In a post on X ahead of the match against Arsenal, Newcastle revealed that Isak had suffered a “minor groin issue”. Callum Wilson eventually led the line in his place. The club did not go into further detail, which has left supporters anxious about whether their top scorer will be fit in time for the season finale against Everton.
The timing couldn’t be worse for Howe’s side, with just one match left to secure a Champions League place for next season. A win over Everton at home would seal the deal, but doing so without their most clinical attacker could be difficult against a Merseyside team whose fortunes have been much improved since David Moyes took over.
