Newcastle United's next challenge is overcoming Liverpool at St James' Park, with or without Alexander Isak
Eddie Howe, Manager of Newcastle United, reacts as Arne Slot, Manager of Liverpool, looks on
Eddie Howe, Manager of Newcastle United, reacts as Arne Slot, Manager of Liverpool, looks on
Eddie Howe is relishing a 'spicy' clash with Liverpool on August 25th, while hoping Alexander Isak's ongoing saga is resolved by the time the champions arrive at St James' Park.
Newcastle United battled to a 0-0 draw with 10-man Aston Villa on the opening day, without Isak, as they failed to use their advantage in the closing stages.
Anthony Gordon led the line in the Swede's absence, while Newcastle fans situated in the Villa Park away end made their feelings abundantly clear towards the 25-year-old wantaway.
Howe, speaking to TNT Sports after the draw, was quizzed over resolving Isak's situation, replying: "It's a difficult one to answer.
"I hope it's resolved quickly because it's sort of news around us all the time, rather than focusing on what we need to do on the pitch and all the things that go into a performance.
"Today the players managed to shut that out and perform. We've done that consistently and we'll have to continue to do that.
"We could do without the narrative against us but what will be, will be."
There has been no love lost between Newcastle and Liverpool in recent weeks, with rival fans sparring on social media as the Isak saga unfolded.
Given the close proximity to the clash, a lack of a second Liverpool bid, and due to the fact Isak has not trained with his team-mates of late, it is unlikely the striker will be involved - for either team - during the St James' Park showdown.
Even still, the bout promises to be a cracker with bragging rights at stake after a tense summer stand off between the north west and north east outfits.
"I think it's always spicy," Howe said of games against Liverpool. "There's a history with the fixture anyway. It's been an unbelievable fixture over the years in the Premier League.
"So we look forward to it. We respect them and know how good they are but hopefully on the back of today we are ready for it."