Newcastle United claimed a crucial win over Brentford as the Premier League returned on Wednesday night.
Newcastle United took to the field for the first time as Carabao Cup champions and saw out a tight but crucial victory in the race for the Premier League’s top four or five.
It remains to be seen how many spots are afforded to Premier League teams for next season’s Champions League but all Eddie Howe’s side can do is control what they can.
Alexander Isak and Sandro Tonali scored either side of a Brentford penalty as Newcastle secured a vital three points at St James’ Park, with the Italian’s goal a particular stand out.
Still, there was something of a concern when Isak came off in the second-half.
READ MORE: Who is Alexander Isak? Age, Height, Family, Nationality, Roots
Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images
Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images
Alexander Isak injury latest news after Newcastle United scare
Isak was forced off shortly after Brentford’s equaliser, a penalty from reported Newcastle United transfer target Bryan Mbeumo.
The idea of being without the Swede for any great deal of time would be a major concern for the run-in, such is his importance to Howe’s side.
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Indeed, his opener against the Bees took him to 20 for the Premier League season alone. Callum Wilson may be an able deputy at his best but the thought of relying on him is a worry.
Luckily, according to The Athletic’s Chris Waugh on social media platform X, Isak did not appear to be in too much discomfort when he was replaced by Wilson despite struggling with a knock beforehand.
Howe, for his part, did not look overly concerned on the touchline.
66: #NUFC double sub – Murphy & Isak are replaced by Willock & Wilson.
Wilson goes centre-forward, Barnes goes right-wing, Willock on the left flank.
Isak had pulled up shortly beforehand, but looked OK as he came off & Howe didn't look concerned. But still, big call.#NEWBRE
— Chris Waugh (@ChrisDHWaugh) April 2, 2025
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Newcastle United’s record without Alexander Isak
Isak has been hailed as “world class” and it would surely be difficult for anybody to disagree with that.
With that in mind, any team in the world – no matter how deep their squad may be – would miss a player of such quality.
Games Wins Losses Draws
5 2 1 2
Newcastle United’s record without Alexander Isak this season
This season, Newcastle have not won any of the three Premier League games he’s missed, though they have won both cup games.
Hopefully, the decision to take him off was more precautionary. Newcastle need him if they are to secure qualification for the Champions League.