Howe wants Isak saga resolved quickly as Newcastle struggle for goals

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·16 August 2025

Howe wants Isak saga resolved quickly as Newcastle struggle for goals

Eddie Howe says he wants a quick resolution to the Alexander Isak transfer saga after Newcastle United were held scoreless by ten-man Aston Villa on Saturday.

The Magpies were the more lively outfit throughout the contest, taking 16 attempts on goal compared to Villa‘s three, but clearly missed the presence of a focal point up front.

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Anthony Gordon deputised as the starting striker in place of Alexander Isak, who is unavailable for selection while he tries to force through a move to Liverpool.

Despite not getting on the scoresheet, Howe was pleased with the winger’s performance up top at Villa Park.

“I can’t criticise anyone who played today,” the Newcastle boss told BBC Match of the Day. “I thought Anthony Gordon was very good in that position. I couldn’t fault his performance. I think we have to focus at how the team functioned rather than any individual.

“If you’re not totally together in the Premier League, you’re going to find it very difficult. I think we answered a few questions today in terms of our spirit. We have to do that on a regular basis, not just today.”

Eddie Howe wants Isak transfer saga resolved ‘quickly’

On Isak’s situation, Howe said: “From my perspective, you want a resolution quickly. It’s taking away the focus of the players, of the supporters. We want to be united together. We’d like a resolution, but we’re not in control of that.”

Earlier in the day Howe told TNT Sports that there was no update on the Isak predicament. Asked if he felt let down by the Sweden international, he answered: “Now is not the time to discuss that. All my emotions are towards this game. This is a tough place to come. We have got to be there mentally, me included.”

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