Eddie Howe has rejected the suggestion that Newcastle United is a one -man team that depends on Alexander Isak.
The Sweden striker was missing because of a groin complaint during the 2-0 defeat on Wednesday in Liverpool, in which the visitors did not register no shot on goal.
It was the third Premier League match without Isak this season and at that time Howe's party has only scored one goal, a penalty and still has to win.
Isak will be assessed on Friday prior to Sunday's visit to Brighton in the FA Cup fifth round, but Howe says that no risks will be taken. Joelinton and Sven Botman are in violation of returning after knee deparder.
In the meantime, head coach Howe was asked on Friday if they religate too much on their 21-goal frontman.
“I don't think so,” said Howe. “But by saying that, we recognize the strengths of Alex and his capacities. I don't think we are a one -man team. I would never classify ourselves in that bracket.
'But Alex brings unique qualities to that center-forward role, the crucial middle role that we need. He has striking qualities in his game and we have formed our game for his qualities. He is an excellent talent that has skills that make us better. That is no lack of respect for someone else we have.
'If he doesn't play, the team sees a different look. It is still a team that in my opinion can be successful, but we should do it in a different way. We have different ways of playing, other skills that we can use.
'But I also think you should see that we were playing Liverpool recently – this season has been a tough game for everyone. I thought there was a lot of good, it wasn't all bad. But yes, we certainly did not hurt them enough around their box. '
Howe used Callum Wilson in Anfield, where the striker made his first Premier League start of the season after injury. The Newcastle boss would like to play Wilson and Isak together.
“It was a great frustration,” said Howe. “My mind goes back to Burnley last year when we played them together. I thought they were excellent. They looked a very handful and enjoyed playing together. It brought us a different dimension.
'Since then we have not had them in the best physical condition to play together. Even now, Callum still finds his way back to his best and Alex has this recent problem. I would like to reach the stage where they are both 100 percent fit and maybe look at that option. '
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