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Eddie Howe has declined to dismiss the possibility of Alexander Isak facing disciplinary action from Newcastle United for neglecting his professional obligations in the Premier League.

The striker has been training in isolation since his team's return from their pre-season tour of the Far East.

Consequently, Isak was absent from the Newcastle squad for their Premier League opener against Aston Villa on Saturday.

The Sweden international is eager to secure a transfer to Liverpool, with the Reds having already seen one offer turned down for him this summer.

When questioned after the goalless stalemate at Villa Park about whether Isak faces potential sanctions, Howe responded: "Other people are dealing with that issue.

Nevertheless, the Chronicle reports that the Magpies are considering when to implement disciplinary measures against Isak, with the Sweden forward now recovered from the groin problem that ruled him out of the Far East tour during pre-season.

Howe also restated his position that the opportunity remains available for Isak to rejoin the squad should he choose to do so, but acknowledges that only the player holds the key.

"We would like a resolution," he said.

"When I say we, I'm talking about myself and I'm sure the ownership, everyone really, the players that we have, because I think we need that clarity this season.

"Any Premier League season can be hard enough.

Howe also declined to speculate on whether the Magpies would have triumphed over Villa with Isak in the squad, stating: "I don't think it's the narrative we want to go down, because it's easy to say, but you've got no way of knowing if that's the case.

"Of course, you're going to miss someone that scored the goals that Alex has, and not just the goals, but the calibre of player that he is.

"So we're not silly enough to think any different, but we just have to look and talk about the players that are here and what they've given today.

"It's very easy for the players to have a feeling of negativity going into the game or an excuse they're ready, but there was no sign of that in our performance."


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