Newcastle news: Isak’s injury ‘a blow’ for Howe’s men

Former Newcastle defender Steve Howey says losing Alexander Isak to a groin injury “was not only a blow for Newcastle, but a boost for Liverpool” on Wednesday night.

Speaking to BBC Radio Newcastle, Howey said : “It was a surprise because there was no knowledge of a knock or a slight issue to his groin, that went on to keep him out of the game.

“It was a late withdrawal, although it is not thought to be a serious problem. But losing their top scorer and someone who had scored in each of his two previous visits to Anfield was not only a blow for Newcastle but a boost for Liverpool.”

Eddie Howe is set to speak to the media on Friday morning before Sunday’s FA Cup fifth round tie with Brighton and is expected to provide an update on Isak’s condition.

Listen to the full conversation on BBC Sounds