Doubts over Newcastle Duo Isak and Tonali’s Participation against Fulham

Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has cast doubt on striker Alexander Isak’s availability for his team’s trip to Fulham on Saturday due to injury.

However, midfielder Sandro Tonali is eager to make his first Premier League start this season after serving a 10-month ban for violating betting regulations.

Swedish forward Isak was forced off at halftime during Newcastle’s 2-1 win over Wolverhampton Wanderers last Sunday, with Howe initially believing it was due to an eye issue, but it was later confirmed that he had sustained a foot injury.

Speaking to reporters on Friday, Howe said, “It was a strange injury as the ball touched his eye. Initially, we thought that was the main reason for his substitution, but then we discovered he had a bruise on his foot. We will know more about his condition today and make the right decision.”

Despite this, former AC Milan midfielder Tonali, who made two appearances for Italy earlier this month, impressed Howe after coming on as a substitute last Sunday.

The manager said, “I think Sandro is in a much better position now. The international matches helped him a lot. He’s pushing hard to start, but I want everyone to push to play in the starting lineup… We have really good competition in midfield.”

Newcastle, who are unbeaten so far with three wins in four Premier League matches, will also be without midfielder Lewis Miley, who has yet to return to full training after suffering a broken foot in July.

Howe added that English striker Callum Wilson, who has been dealing with a back injury, is aiming to return to full training by the next international break next month.