Isak was forced to miss Wednesday night’s defeat at Liverpool with a groin injury and Howe is set to speak to the in-form striker today to discover whether Newcastle’s top scorer is available for Sunday’s FA Cup tie against Brighton.
Howe said the injury isn’t serious but he won’t risk playing the striker too soon and causing further damage.
“We’ll see today,” said Newcastle’s boss.
“I haven’t seen him since the game. So we’ll see how he is today, have a long discussion, but we don’t think it’s a long-term problem.
“Obviously, there was no risk taken on Wednesday and there can’t be with this stage of the season that we’re at. We wouldn’t take any risks on his long-term fitness.
“We’ll see how he is today and if he’s fit then he’ll play.”
Howe added: “With Alex it’s pretty clear if he’s fit in any game leading up to the cup final, he’ll play. We have to have that mindset with all of our players. The best thing for a player to stay in good form is to play them if you can. That’s what we’ll try and do with all our players.”
Newcastle have failed to win any of their three Premier League games Isak has missed this season, and the only goal they’ve scored was a penalty. But Howe is adamant the Magpies aren’t a one-man team.
Howe said: “I don’t think so. But in saying that, we recognise Alex’s strengths and his abilities. I don’t think we’re a one-man team. I would never classify us in that bracket. But Alex brings unique qualities in that centre-forward role, that pivotal middle role that we need. We have other ways of playing, other skillsets that we can utilise.”
If Isak isn’t deemed ready for Sunday’s FA Cup fifth round tie, Callum Wilson will start his second successive game for the first time this season.
Sven Botman and Joelinton were both set to be assessed on Friday but could return from their injuries.
Howe said: “They have a chance. Today is a big day for them. We’ll see how close they are, whether they train with the team for the first time or not. Knowing both players they’ll be very keen to be involved as long as their respective injuries are OK.”
