Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe says it is "business as usual" for his players despite the transfer speculation surrounding Alexander Isak and insists "nothing has changed" regarding the striker's future at the club.
Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe says it is "business as usual" for his players despite the transfer speculation surrounding Alexander Isak and insists "nothing has changed" regarding the striker's future at the club.
Speaking about the situation following the Magpies' pre-season friendly defeat by K-League XI, Howe said: "Nothing has changed. It is very much the mindset of business as usual for the players.
"You don't get a chance to think of anything other than training or the next game when you come on these tours. The level is so high that we still have to be at our best.
"Naturally, we are going to miss a player of his quality and the group are going to feel that. I cannot sit here and claim that they won't, but they are a very professional group of players.
"They are doing brilliantly, as far as I can see, in terms of managing the current situation."
William Osula has played around 70 minutes in the past two pre-season games and Howe recognises this is an opportunity for the 21-year-old to stake his claim.
"It is a great chance for him to showcase what he brings and what he is about," Howe said.
"I thought he looked better against K-League XI than against Celtic. He looked fitter and sharper. His attitude was very good and he looked hungry to get in the right positions to try to score.
"I think every member of our squad has to be ready to play. We don't have the biggest squad so every person has to contribute and I would have no hesitation picking anyone to start."
Category: General Sports
