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Speaking to the media in his pre-Aston Villa press conference, Howe confirmed that the situation has not changed – meaning Isak will not be playing vs the Villains on Saturday:

“No change this week.



All my focus has been on training, Villa, and on the transfer front in terms of trying to get players in,” Howe said as quoted by the Chronicle.

“I’ve had a great relationship with Alex.

I take my part in that relationship really importantly.

I have to work really closely with the player to his benefit.”

When quizzed on whether the actions of the Swede are helping to bring the squad as whole together, Howe replied:

“Sometimes these things can have that effect.

I think we were really close anyway.”

“I don’t know if I can say it’s brought us closer together?

But sometimes these things can unify the group.”

“Without Alex, everyone is going to have to step up and give more.”

When asked if he expected Isak to be a Newcastle player beyond August, Howe said:

“At the moment I would say yes but I’ve had no change of feeling throughout the summer
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