There was no sign of Alexander Isak as Newcastle fell to a 4-0 defeat against Celtic in a pre-season runout, fuelling fresh questions over the striker’s future. Despite the absence and speculation, manager Eddie Howe spoke with assurance.

Newcastle also recently confirmed that striker Callum Wilson would be leaving the club upon the expiration of his contract. Wilson had spent the past five years at Newcastle, contributing 49 goals and leaving as the club’s third all-time leading scorer in the Premier League behind Alan Shearer and Alexander Isak.