Eddie Howe says Alexander Isak suffered a suspected groin injury during Tuesday’s victory over Aston Villa but was hopeful it was not serious.
The forward was forced off on the stroke of half time at Villa Park and was replaced by Miguel Almiron.
“We don’t really know,” Howe told TNT Sports. “It doesn’t look too serious, a slight groin issue, but fingers crossed we get him back.”
Howe later added in his post-match press conference that he doesn’t think Isak’s injury will affect his transfer plans.
“I expect to be finished for the window. I think there’s very little time left to do anything, either in or out. So that’s where it’s at,” he said.
“First of all, we need to assess the injury and see where Callum is as well. I don’t think we have the ability to do anything.
“I’d like to say that way my decision but that was Alex’s decision. He said he had to come off, so we’re hopeful it’s not a serious injury. It doesn’t look too bad but it’s very early to say that, we need a proper diagnosis and then assess where we are.”
Isak missed five matches in all competitions between October and November with a groin injury.
Howe, meanwhile, also stated he is convinced that Miguel Almiron would remain at the club, adding: “Yes, I’m confident that he will stay now. And I’m delighted because he’s such an important player.”
Newcastle secured a 3-1 victory at Villa Park thanks to two first-half goals from Fabian Schar and an Alex Moreno own goal shortly after half time, before Ollie Watkins pulled one back for Villa with 20 minutes remaining.
