Newcastle boss Eddie Howe has provided an update on the Alexander Isak saga and admitted that it was a 'distraction' during pre-season.
Isak is currently on strike as he looks to secure a move to Liverpool before the transfer window closes on September 1.
The striker wasn't part of the Newcastle squad for their opening game of the Premier League season away to Aston Villa.
Howe wants Isak to play but it seems highly unlikely that he will feature in upcoming fixtures against Liverpool or Leeds.