Frank Christian
Newcastle United’s leading scorer, Alexander Isak, has been sidelined for Sunday’s crucial Premier League match against Arsenal due to a minor groin issue, as confirmed by the club’s official announcements just prior to the game.
The Swedish forward, who has scored 23 goals in 33 league appearances this season, was anticipated to lead Newcastle’s offense in this important match with significant UEFA Champions League consequences.
This situation compels Eddie Howe to make adjustments, placing Callum Wilson in the starting lineup for only his second league appearance of the season.
Isak’s absence poses a challenge for Newcastle’s aspirations. As they sat in third place before the match, a win at the Emirates Stadium would elevate them to second place and secure a spot in the UCL.
At 25 years old, Isak previously netted the winning goal against Arsenal in November at St James’ Park and began the scoring in a 2-0 Carabao Cup win at the Emirates in January.
“Wilson steps in for leading scorer Alexander Isak, who will miss the match due to a minor groin injury.”
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Newcastle’s injury troubles extend beyond Isak. Vice-captain Kieran Trippier is out due to a calf problem, while Joelinton, Matt Targett, and Lewis Hall are also not available, with recovery timelines extending from late May to July.
Wilson, having made 16 league appearances without a goal this season, carries significant responsibility for Newcastle’s offense as they aim to return to European competition.
Arsenal vs Newcastle United lineup details
Arsenal
Starting XI: David Raya; Ben White, William Saliba, Jakub Kiwior, Miles Lewis-Skelly; Thomas Partey, Declan Rice, Martin Ødegaard; Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, Leandro Trossard
Substitutes: Neto — Riccardo Calafiori, Kieran Tierney, Oleksandr Zinchenko — Jorginho, Jack Henry-Francis, Ethan Nwaneri — Raheem Sterling, Kai Havertz
Newcastle United
Starting XI: Nick Pope; Tino Livramento, Fabian Schär, Sven Botman, Dan Burn; Jacob Murphy, Sandro Tonali, Bruno Guimarães; Harvey Barnes, Anthony Gordon, Callum Wilson
Substitutes: Martin Dúbravka, John Ruddy — Emil Krafth, Jamaal Lascelles — Sean Longstaff, Lewis Miley, Joe Willock — Will Osula, Sean Neave
Updates on Newcastle United and relevant links
- Liverpool refocuses transfer targets as Newcastle responds to wild Alexander Isak speculation
- Has Newcastle United clinched the League Cup before? A look at the Magpies’ history in the Carabao Cup
- Latest updates on Newcastle United
