It has been a tricky summer for the Magpies. While transfer activity is beginning to pick up, with Malick Thiaw and Jacob Ramsey this week joining Anthony Elanga and Aaron Ramsdale in signing for the club, the Alexander Isak saga is a dark cloud that continues to float over Howe’s squad.
Isak won’t be involved in the visit to Villa Park, with the Swede refusing to play in an attempt to force through a move to Liverpool.
“No, there's been no change to the situation,” Howe confirmed at his pre-match press conference. ”All my focus has been on the training, on Aston Villa, on the transfer front in terms of trying to get players in. And you can imagine that that is all-consuming for me.
“So Alex's situation has been unchanged for a while and that will continue to be the case, I think.”
Who will start in Isak’s absence? Which new signings will make their debuts? Here’s how Newcastle United are expected to line-up at Villa Park:
Pope is expected to start the campaign but faces strong competition from Aaron Ramsdale.
1. GK: Nick Pope
Pope is expected to start the campaign but faces strong competition from Aaron Ramsdale. | Getty Images
Monaco are reportedly showing interest in Trippier but Newcastle have little intention of letting the 34-year-old leave.
2. RB: Kieran Trippier
Monaco are reportedly showing interest in Trippier but Newcastle have little intention of letting the 34-year-old leave. | Getty Images
Newcastle have strengthened at centre-back with the arrival of Malick Thiaw, but it’s early days for the former AC Milan man.
3. CB: Fabian Schar
Newcastle have strengthened at centre-back with the arrival of Malick Thiaw, but it’s early days for the former AC Milan man. | Getty Images
Last season was stuff of dreams for the Blyth-born defender. He’ll do well to top it!
4. CB: Dan Burn
Last season was stuff of dreams for the Blyth-born defender. He’ll do well to top it! | Getty Images