Eddie Howe speaks out from Singapore about state of play with Alexander Isak's Newcastle United future
Eddie Howe has sat down in front of the media out in Singapore ahead of tomorrow's pre-season friendly against Arsenal.
The Newcastle United boss didn't have to wait very long before the questions about Alexander Isak started to come his way.
While Eddie Howe continued with the injury story, saying that Isak started complaining of a thigh issue before the Celtic game, he was ultimately pushed on the potential future of his star forward.
Howe is an expert at saying a lot without saying anything, but we doubt there'll be many fans out there who are feeling confident about Isak's future at the club after listening to the gaffer.
Eddie Howe is still peddling the injury story
Eddie Howe said there are no contract talks underway with Isak at present, but he didn't rule out talks for later in the window.
"He is now in Newcastle getting his injury assessed. Hopefully, he will be back soon and playing in the black and white shirt, that's what we want to see.
"Of course, there are things going on behind the scenes. Conversations that happen between Alex and ourselves and Alex and the club will stay private.
"He is very popular in the dressing room and would love him to continue to his journey at Newcastle. There are no contract talks taking place, that will be for a later date, potentially. I certainly hope he stays. It's football, who knows what the future will bring."
It sounds to us like Alexander Isak's future depends on timing more than anything else
Howe also spoke about how any decision that is taken on Isak has to be right for the club, and suggested that there's no room at the club for a player who isn't committed.
"Whatever happens, has to be right for Newcastle. We are in a strong position financially and are determined to be successful.
"There are always big decisions to make when you are at Newcastle. I have experienced it many times. I've sold players throughout my managerial career. There is a wider picture; there is a football club that has to make the decision.
"I wouldn't put a timescale on it. It has to be right for the football club and they will make the right decision with all the information they have.
"It's up to us to make good decisions the other way and to improve the squad, regardless of Alex's situation. We want stability and the group to have a really good feeling. I don't think we are distracted. We are here and we are focused."
Reading between the lines, it sounds like the decision has been made, and Isak is being allowed to leave, but it will all come down to the timing of the buying club.
