Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak is back in contention for Saturday's home game against Brighton.
Newcastle are just two points outside the Premier League's top four but will be counting on Isak to help them get back to winning ways after missing out on draws against Manchester City and Everton with a broken leg.
The Magpies are seven and face sixth-placed Brighton on Saturday with Kieran Trippier a doubt with a hamstring problem. But manager Eddie Howe has been boosted by Isak's return to training after missing the Nations League games in Sweden this month.
Isak has scored a goal and provided an assist in his five Premier League appearances this season, but is a key player for Howe, who also shared positive news about his striker Callum Wilson. "Alex trained and trained well," Howe told his press conference ahead of the Brighton welcome. "His toe is completely healed."
Isak was the third top scorer in the Premier League last season, with 21 goals in 30 appearances. He scored the winner against Tottenham Hotspur in September, but played with a toe injury in Newcastle's defeat at Fulham and missed the next two games.
Before the international break, Howe hoped his star striker would remain available despite the injury.
"Either he would be out until after the international break, or he could continue to play normally if he could tolerate the sensations and effects of the injury," Howe said after the Fulham defeat. "I wasn't able to do that."
Newcastle's first game without the 25-year-old was an impressive draw at home to Manchester City. Anthony Gordon scored the Magpies' equalizer from the penalty spot but England team-mate Jordan Pickford saved him when he had the chance to do the same in the 0-0 draw against his former club Everton.
Callum Wilson is also expected to return to Newcastle
Isak's availability strengthens Howe's options in attack and the penalty box. Wilson's return is imminent and his fitness will be closely monitored ahead of his first appearance of the season.
With Isak back in the team, Newcastle can afford to give Wilson the time he needs to be ready. "When we get him, we want him for a long time," Howe told the media on Friday. "It is important that we make the right decision."
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