Eddie Howe frustrated with reporters over Arsenal’s interest in Alexander Isak

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Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has voiced his frustration over the continued speculation linking his star players including Alexander Isak with a move to Arsenal, as the two clubs gear up for a decisive Premier League clash at the Emirates Stadium this weekend.

The Magpies travel to North London just two points behind Mikel Arteta’s side, knowing that a fourth win over the Gunners this season would give them a strong chance of finishing second behind champions Liverpool. Newcastle previously defeated Arsenal both home and away in the Carabao Cup semi-finals.

However, ahead of the encounter, Howe has been forced to contend with growing transfer rumours surrounding several of his key players. Arsenal are reportedly targeting striker Alexander Isak as they seek to add more firepower this summer, while Anthony Gordon and Bruno Guimaraes have also been linked with a move to the Emirates.

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“It is a frustration because I don’t see why our players are getting linked here, there and everywhere with other clubs,” Howe said in his pre-match press conference.

“I’d like to think the players are happy here. I’d like to think again that they’re seeing us grow and develop into a team that hopefully can compete at the top end of the division. We have no divine right to do that, but I think we’re going in the right direction, so yes, it’s a source of frustration. But I don’t let it absorb me, really.”

Newcastle’s hopes of completing a clean sweep over Arsenal this season have also been dented by injury concerns, with several key players likely to miss Sunday’s showdown.

Kieran Trippier is expected to be sidelined with a minor calf injury, while Sven Botman, who recently returned to action, is a major doubt after suffering a knock to his knee during last weekend’s match against Chelsea.

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“Kieran I don’t think will be fit for this weekend, but again it’s not a big injury, a very minor calf problem,” Howe said.

On Botman, he added: “We’re not sure about Sven’s availability for the weekend but we’ll give him a chance to be fit. We don’t think it’s a serious injury. He’s been unlucky. You’re going to get knocks and bruises in his position, and this is a similar thing.”

Meanwhile, midfielder Joelinton, who has been out for the past month, is unlikely to feature again this season.

“He’s working away behind the scenes,” Howe said. “Typical Joe—he’s absolutely foot to the floor trying to get fit because he wants to be involved.”

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