FILE - Newcastle's Alexander Isak celebrates after scoring his side's opening goal during the English Premier League football match between Liverpool and Newcastle, at Anfield stadium in Liverpool, England, Monday, Jan. 1, 2024. Photo: AP
The Sweden forward left before halftime of a 3-1 win over Aston Villa in midweek, but assistant manager Jason Tindall said Friday that Isak “has a chance” of playing when Luton visits St. James' Park.
Tindall, who handled press duties while manager Eddie Howe was sick, said the 24-year-old Isak made improvements this week and will be assessed later Friday.
Isak has scored 10 league goals and 14 in total this season, so his availability would be a boost for eighth-place Newcastle especially if veteran striker Callum Wilson isn't back. Wilson hasn't played since late December because of a calf injury but has made progress toward a return.
The Saudi-controlled northeast team, which didn't add any senior-level players in the January transfer window, is also without Joelinton. The Brazil midfielder is recovering from thigh surgery.
Luton's 1-0 win over Newcastle on Dec. 23 sent the Magpies on a four-game losing streak in league play. Newcastle halted the slide Tuesday at Villa.
Howe was expected to be back for Saturday's game, Tindall said.
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