Newcastle manager Eddie Howe says his side is not a ‘team with one man’ and hopes the star striker Alexander Isak will return soon.
The Swedish striker has achieved 21 times this season, but missed the defeat in Liverpool in the middle of the week with the problem of groin.
Callum Wilson started in his place, but Magpies looked understandable from Anfield from the Fire.
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Howe says Isaac could play against Brighton this weekend in FA Cup, and will start when he will fit the Carabao Cup against Liverpool next month.
Howe said, “We recognize Alexa [Isak’s] forces and his abilities. I don’t think we are a team for one man, I will never classify us in that carrier, but Alex brings unique qualities in that role aimed at central, in that central middle role we need.
“We have other ways to play and set the skills of other players to use. I thought there was a lot of good against Liverpool in our performance, but we didn’t hurt them around their box.
“There is always a risk with any player, but we would not take the risk of his long -term fitness. We will see how he is today and if he is in shape, he will play.
“I think it is quite clear with Alex for me, if he is able to go to any game that leads to the EFL Cup final, then he will play and we have to have that way of thinking with all our players.”
‘We want to strengthen our team’
Newcastle did not give any major signatures in January and continue to see their players associated with the club moves.
Tino Livanceto Full Bek is the latest mentioned with a move to Manchester City, and Howe says reports are frustrating.
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He said, “I think it’s not alone, it’s frustrating that we’re constantly talking about players and rumors to leave.
“We want to go the other way, we want to go the other way and strengthen the group. We want to strengthen our team and team for the future, not lose the best players. “
Newcastle last won the FA Cup in 1955.
