Newcastle have left Alexander Isak out of the squad for their Premier League opener against Aston Villa today, amid interest from Liverpool.
Isak’s future is uncertain at the moment as he is at the centre of a transfer saga after Liverpool saw an £110million offer rejected by the Magpies earlier in the month.
The Swede has since been left to train alone since withdrawing from the club's pre-season trip to Singapore and South Korea citing a thigh injury.
Newcastle head coach Eddie Howe has revealed that he wants Isak to return to training and be available for selection but confirmed before the game that the striker would not be be making the trip to Villa Park.
Speaking to reporters on Friday morning, Howe said: "There has been no change. All my focus is on Aston Villa tomorrow. Isak's situation has been clear for a while and that will continue to be the case.
"I've had a great relationship with him, you need that partnership with every player. I have to work really closely with the player for his benefit, to try and improve them. I always want to be there for him.
"I don't think Isak would have done as well without that, his team mates, the supporters - he recognises that, he's an intelligent person."
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In addition to Isak, midfielderJoe Willock remains sidelined through injury. Meanwhile, Newcastle have not finalised a deal for Jacob Ramsey in time to have him available for selection.
That said, summer signing Malick Thiaw is in contention to make his debut after completing his transfer from AC Milan earlier in the week.
The central defender is named among the substitutes alongside Aaron Ramsdale, but Anthony Elanga does make his first competitive start for Newcastle.
