Newcastle United have now been dealt an injury blow before their trip to Manchester United involving Alexander Isak.

The Lowdown: Back to the bench?

Magpies supporters were given hope with regards to Isak's fitness this week, with it being reported that he could make the bench at Old Trafford on Sunday afternoon after a thigh injury.

The Sweden international has missed their last two matches in the Premier League, and it looks as though reports of a return this weekend were a little wide of the mark.

The Latest: Not yet

Speaking to the media in his pre-game press conference ahead of the match against the Red Devils, Eddie Howe has confirmed that while Isak is making 'progress' in his recovery, he is 'not available' to play on Sunday:

"Alexander Isak is making progress but he's not available for this game. We've not picked up any new injuries."

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The Verdict: Big blow

The fact that Isak has been categorically ruled out of the clash against Erik ten Hag's side is no doubt a big blow for the St. James' Park outfit.

With two goals in his previous three games in the league, the club-record new signing from Real Sociedad has adapted to English football quickly, and Howe would have liked to use him in such a huge match against one of the so-called 'big six'.

A win would take the Tynesiders above their opponents in the table, and potentially as high as fourth spot, and having Isak available would have given them a better chance of taking all three points back to the North East.