Lack of firepower is apparent as United are outgunned as Isak sits at home

NEWCASTLE United had to watch awkwardly in Singapore as Arsenal's £64million Sweden international was paraded in the Far East.

- By LEE RYDER

There was no lack of irony in the parade, in what felt like a Gunners home game, as Alexander Isak was left stewing at home.

But as Viktor Gyokeres was roared on to the field by Arsenal fans, the facts of the matter are that Isak is in danger of holding up Newcastle's transfer business.

The club could consider recalling him as they look for answers on the striker's injury status but patience is wearing thin. Newcastle look like a team who need him on the pitch again but after the game Eddie Howe said there was no immediate plan to get Isak to South Korea.

But Howe said after the game: “We are not deluded and know we need to bring players in.”

Howe was then pressed again on an Isak recall and said: “No chance.”

The Isak situation is hanging over Newcastle's summer right now and Howe's face said it all at times during an intense press conference.

True, Newcastle netted twice here in Singapore with Anthony Elanga and Jacob Murphy at least giving fans something to cheer. But they are well short of experienced firepower right now.