Newcastle manager Eddie Howe says Alexander Isak could return to the matchday squad for the Magpies’ Carabao Cup quarter-final tie against Chelsea.

The Swedish international missed the 3-0 win over Fulham at the weekend due to a groin injury but, speaking at his pre-match press conference, Howe said there is a possibility that the striker could be involved at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday evening:

“He’s got a problem with the groin which, he had a scan last week, it’s not a big problem. It’s just fatigued more than anything but it’s enough at the moment to just treat him carefully because we don’t want him to be out like he was before for six, seven weeks.”

“He’ll have a chance [to play at Chelsea] but we need to make the right decision.”

As Howe mentions, it would not be right to risk Isak’s long-term fitness but, as it is such a big game, it may be worth taking a chance on him.

Two other Newcastle stars are not expected to play

Fabian Schar (muscular) and Joelinton (hamstring) are set to undergo scans on their respective injuries after being the latest players to be struck down by injury.

It is unlikely that the pair will be available to face Chelsea, but Howe is hopeful that they won’t be sidelined for too long.

Howe is having to deal with a lengthy injury list

In addition to the three players already mentioned, the Magpies have 8 others on the treatment table. Kieran Trippier (knock) could return to play on Tuesday if he passes a late fitness test.

However, the likes of Joe Willock (calf), Matt Targett (hamstring), Javier Manquillo (groin), Elliott Anderson (back), Jacob Murphy (shoulder), Harvey Barnes (foot) and Nick Pope (shoulder) have been ruled out.

You can watch the documentary – Newcastle United: The Road Back To Europe on Shots! TV here