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After the final whistle, Howe explained that Isak's injury was not too serious and the decision to leave him out was a close one.

He was pressed for another update on the striker's condition in Friday's press conference ahead of Newcastle's game against Brighton in the FA Cup.

"We'll see today," said Howe.



"I haven't seen him since the game, so we'll see how he is today and have a discussion with him, I'm sure.

We don't think it's a long-term problem.

"Obviously, there was no risk taken on Wednesday and there can't be at this stage of the season.

That's the world that we're in, but we wouldn't take any risks on his long-term fitness."

Howe will be desperate for Isak to make a full recovery ahead of next month's Carabao Cup final, which will see Newcastle take on defending champions Liverpool.

"I think with Alex, I think it's pretty clear to me if he's fit in any game leading up to the cup final, he will play," added the Magpies boss.

"And I think we have to have that mindset with all our players.

"I'd say again today is a big day for them really because I think we'll see how close they are, whether they train with the team for the first time or not.

"Knowing both players, they'll be very keen to be involved as long as their respective injuries feel good."

Newcastle will move closer to booking another Wembley trip if they can beat the Seagulls to reach the FA Cup quarter-finals, but Howe is aware that it will be a hugely difficult task.

"Just looking solely at the FA Cup, it's obviously a huge competition," he said.

We've got a lot of good attacking players, so I think it should be a really great cup tie."


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