Eddie Howe insists 'no change' in transfer speculation involving Alexander Isak

The forward is currently training away from the Newcastle first team and will miss Saturday's Premier League opener at Aston Villa, amid intense speculation about his future.

The Sweden international missed the pre-season tour to Asia and has not featured in any of their friendly matches and Howe said his team must forget about the strike - at least for this weekend.

Howe told reporters: "We do (have to forget about Isak) - he's not here with us. We have to focus on who is here and get the best out of them.

"The players are aware he's not here, the focus will be on each player playing to the best of their ability.

"I want him to play. I want him to train. I've had those conversations (with Isak) but the details of those will remain private.

"There is no change to the situation. All my focus has been on the training, Aston Villa and the transfer front in terms of getting players in - that is all-consuming for me.

"Alex's situation has been unchanged for a while and that will continue to be the case."

Howe insists that he has enjoyed a "great relationship" with Isak and believes the forward knows how important Newcastle has been in his career.

The Magpies mentor added: "Me and Alex have enjoyed a great relationship. I don't think he would have done as well has he has done without that. Without his team-mates, without the supporters.

"He is a highly intelligent person and he knows he wouldn't have had the success he's had without everybody connected with Newcastle."

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