EDDIE READY TO BE SMART WITH A' EX

Howe won't risk Isak as he backs Toon to fill the void

- Ian Murtagh

EDDIE HOWE is adamant that Newcastle can beat Everton and qualify for the Champions League tomorrow - even if top scorer Alexander Isak is ruled out.

The Swede missed Sunday's defeat at Arsenal with a groin injury and has not trained with the first-team squad this week.

Isak will be assessed today with Howe prepared to wait until the last minute before naming his side.

But the head coach believes the Magpies can claim the win they need to finish in the top five of the Premier League, irrespective of their talisman's availability.

Howe said: "I am confident because I don't think we are truly reliant on one player.