'We have to be ready': Eddie Howe's reluctance to risk Alexander Isak could benefit Newcastle United on Sunday

Eddie Howe admitted this morning that he's not sure whether Alexander Isak will be fit enough to play on Sunday as Newcastle take on Brighton in the FA Cup.

Alexander Isak was forced to sit out the game against Liverpool in midweek with a groin issue, and while Isak himself felt he could play, the decision was taken not to risk him.

As things stand, there's no indication of whether the club are willing to risk Isak again on Sunday, despite Eddie Howe's insistence that he will play if he's fit.

One does not drop Alexander Isak unless one absolutely has to.

Fabian Hurzeler is setting up his team to face Alexander Isak

Eddie Howe's sentiments are echoed by Brighton's manager Fabian Hurzeler who told reporters in his pre-match presser that he is preparing his side as if Isak is going to play as it would be crazy not to.

“Alexander Isak is a special player.

“A player who can make the difference. You can’t replace a player like this because not every team has two, three or four players of this quality.

“Therefore, it is a different game if he won’t play, but the thing is, now we don’t know that, so we really have to prepare as if Isak will start.

“We have to prepare for his actions, for his behaviour, how we want to defend this together as a group. You can’t gamble and say he won’t play.

“I am sure Newcastle will try everything to make him fit for the game and we have to be ready for that.”

Playing Callum Wilson could work to Eddie Howe's advantage

It sounds like Brighton may be less prepared to face a Newcastle side with Callum Wilson up front on Sunday if they're basing their preparation on Alexander Isak.

Although, as above, if Isak is fit, you still want him to start whether your opposition is counting on it or not, he's simply too important.

We'll see on Sunday which way it goes for Isak and Wilson, and indeed Brighton.