Eddie Howe Declares Alexander Isak Transfer Drama Set for Swift Resolution
Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe has restated his conviction that Alexander Isak could return to action for the team as he suggested the controversy over a potential move to Liverpool is nearing its conclusion.
Isak has declined to feature for Newcastle during the summer period, claiming the Magpies broke commitments in a passionate declaration that clearly expressed his wish to depart. Newcastle quickly responded with a firm statement essentially rejecting the forward's grievances.
"My preference with these matters is that they don't unfold in public, because I believe everything is handled better privately, but circumstances require it in this case and the club has responded, probably rightfully so at that time," Howe stated at Friday's media briefing when questioned about his reaction.
The Premier League's scheduling system provided an intriguing twist to this drama with a clash between Newcastle and Liverpool scheduled for Monday night—a match where Isak will continue to be absent.
"He's under contract with us, he belongs to our squad. My hope is that he would be featuring on Monday evening alongside us, but he won't be, and that's disappointing right now, but...absolutely, I want to witness him back wearing a Newcastle jersey," Howe added.
Isak's public declaration is thought to have damaged his prospects of departing Newcastle this summer, with club leadership reportedly determined they will not yield. Howe, who confirmed he was unaware whether the striker faced disciplinary action for his comments, expressed confidence the entire situation is reaching its finale.
"I'm not a crystal ball reader unfortunately. I have no means of predicting what will occur in the coming days, regarding attempts to achieve some resolution to the circumstances. I'm in the same position as everyone else," he explained.
"It appears to be reaching a conclusion—well, it will conclude quite soon—and then we can concentrate on the football once more."
Media reports indicated the Newcastle team were split in their reaction to Isak's declaration, with many reportedly annoyed by the Sweden striker's behavior, but Howe believes his players would embrace Isak's return wholeheartedly.
"I believe there's no question how the squad will react," the Magpies manager emphasized. "I believe they'll react the same way I do.
"Alex is a remarkable talent and, I must say, an excellent individual. Strong character, he's a fine young man, desires to advance in his profession. This has been an extremely challenging circumstance for him, for all the squad members that we must see us without him. I believe they've managed it exceptionally well. But if Alex chose to return and represent us, the team would embrace him back."