The door is open - Newcastle coach Eddie Howe hopeful Alexander Isak can return

Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe has urged calm over the future of Alexander Isak, insisting the striker could still be reintegrated into the squad despite growing tension with supporters.

Isak was left out of the Magpies’ opening-day clash at Aston Villa, where Newcastle dominated but failed to convert their chances in a frustrating 0–0 draw.

The Swede’s absence was particularly felt as winger Anthony Gordon was forced to lead the line as a false nine.

The 24-year-old continues to train away from the first-team group as he pushes for a move to Liverpool, who saw a £110m plus add-ons bid rejected earlier in the transfer window.

Fans expressed their anger at the full-time whistle, labelling Isak “greedy” in chants that echoed through Villa Park.

Speaking after the match, Howe admitted the situation was unsettling but insisted the striker’s future at the club is not yet closed.

He said, “Nothing has changed. The door is well and truly open. He has to decide what he wants to do. We would like a resolution. We need that clarity. You don’t need any kind of distraction. I am not in control of that. There is one person who can control it. Let’s wait and see. I’ve made my stance clear. I’m concentrating on the team.”

While Howe praised his players’ effort, he also addressed the supporters’ chants against Isak.

“The supporters acted really well today. If afterwards they want to say something, they are free to do that,” he said.

Gordon, who carried Newcastle’s attacking threat in Isak’s absence, admitted the situation had tested the squad’s unity but backed his teammates to remain resilient.

“It has been difficult because we’re a tight-knit group,” Gordon told TNT Sports.

He continued, “But you see today, we’ve still got that spirit and togetherness. That will never go, regardless of individuals. Things like this can make you better in the end.”

With just weeks remaining in the transfer window, the uncertainty surrounding Isak’s future threatens to overshadow Newcastle’s campaign.