Isak decision and Osula chance as Newcastle United squad revealed for Man City test

Newcastle United are sweating on the inclusion of striker Alexander Isak for today's Premier League clash with Manchester City at St James' Park.

Head coach Eddie Howe has revealed the Swedish frontman is playing through the pain of a broken toe at the minute, with injections getting him through United's 3-1 defeat to Fulham last weekend. Isak has not trainined this week, but he has not been ruled out of today's game, with a late decision to be made on his inclusion.

If he is ruled out, Howe could turn to Anthony Gordon to lead the line, something the England star has done before, or hand a first start to summer signing Will Osula. The former Sheffield United youngster made his debut appearance at Craven Cottage but is yet to start a game since his move from Bramall Lane

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Elsehwere, United have no new injury issues to report, although are still missing several first-team players. Sven Botman and Jamaal Lascelles are set to miss most of the remainder of 2024 as their recovery from ACL surgery continues, while Callum Wilson (back) and Lewis Miley (toe) could return after the October international break.

Howe does have plenty of competition for places, however, particularly in midfield where Sandro Tonali is again pressing for a place. We seem to say this every week now, but the Italian has been restricted to bench roles after that initial start against Nottingham Forest in the Carabao Cup.

Jacob Murphy and Miguel Almiron are also attacking options should Isak be ruled out, while Tino Livramento and Lewis Hall will be hoping for a recall after missing out to Kieran Trippier and Lloyd Kelly at Fulham.

NEWCASTLE UNITED SQUAD vs Manchester City: Pope, Dubravka, Ruddy, Vlachodimos, Trippier, Livramento, Krafth, Schar, Burn, Hall, Kelly, Targett, A Murphy, Tonali, Guimaraes, Joelinton, Longstaff, Willock, J Murphy, Barnes, Almiron, Gordon, Isak, Osula.