North East reporter for The Daily Mail Craig Hope has shared a worrying Newcastle United injury update on Alexander Isak.

The Lowdown: Hamstring problem

Isak has been out since reports claiming that he would not return until after the FIFA World Cup in Qatar.

There had been early indications that he should be fine once the tournament finishes, but there are still question marks over whether he will be fully fit once the domestic season resumes.

The Latest: 'Race against time'

Taking to Twitter, Hope has shared that Isak 'will miss' the St. James' Park outfit's mid-season friendlies that they have arranged to help get back up to full fitness ahead of club fixtures returning, and faces a 'race against time' to be fit for the return of the Premier League:

"UPDATE: Alexander Isak will miss NUFC mid-season friendlies & faces race against time to be fit for return of Premier League. £60m striker has not suffered setback & remains on track, but club urging caution given previous recurrence of thigh injury."

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The Verdict: Worrying

Given how long he has been out for already, it is certainly worrying for the Toon Army to hear that Isak, dubbed an 'exceptional talent' by goalscoring legend Gary Lineker, is doubtful for the return of the top flight.

He started off his Tyneside career very well, scoring two goals in three Premier League appearances, including netting on his debut at Anfield against Liverpool (Transfermarkt)

Having paid a club-record £63m for the Sweden international in the summer, the Magpies will no doubt want to see more of him as the season progresses, but these niggling injury concerns will be a worry as they look to chase a UEFA Champions League spot for next term.