Howe provides Isak fitness update ahead of Liverpool visit | OneFootball

The Swedish frontman was withdrawn early on in the 1-1 draw at Selhurst Park on Saturday but with the Premier League table-topping Reds in town in midweek, head coach Howe is hopeful Isak will be fit enough to play a part.

The Magpies have the chance to move back up into the top half with a victory over Arne Slot's men, and Howe spoke to the media on Tuesday morning, providing an update on the forward's fitness as well as discussing the challenge they face on Wednesday against a team who are currently nine points clear at the summit.

Here are some of the main topics that were covered in Howe's pre-match media briefing:

On Isak and Dan Burn's availability...

"Alex took a knock to his hip. We haven't seen him in training yet, but we don't think it's a long-term injury.

"Dan got through the game well. When he got suspended, we used that as an opportunity to look after his ankle and get himself fit. He was outstanding against Crystal Palace, and he came through the game okay."

On in-form Liverpool...

"Liverpool are very good, very strong - what a week they have had against Real Madrid and Manchester City. Players are playing well - we are going to need to put in a good defensive performance and pose them questions going forward as well."

On the eagerly-anticipated visit of the Reds...

"There is an excitement about the game, and to attack a game like this will be a brilliant thing.

"We have to bring our strengths, and our strengths are unique to us."

On the Emirates FA Cup third round draw, which pitted the Magpies against League Two outfit Bromley at St. James' Park...

"It was great to see us get a home draw. It will be a great occasion, but we will look forward to that when that comes around."

On the importance of creating the right environment for his side...

"It is about giving players the confidence, and making an environment so they can be comfortable and free."