Positive Alexander Isak injury hint as Newcastle United prepare for Champions League decider

Alexander Isak's fitness is a priority concern for the Newcastle United faithful ahead of this weekend's Premier League finale

Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak has been named in Sweden's national team squad for an upcoming international double header despite nursing a groin injury heading into this Sunday's clash with Everton.

The striker sat out of last weekend's defeat to Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium, despite travelling to north London with his team-mates. Eddie Howe made a late call on Isak, opting to leave him out of United's matchday squad entirely.

The former Real Sociedad star's fitness remains up in the air ahead of the Premier League finale at St James' Park but Sweden boss Jon Dahl Tomasson has called on his services for clashes with Hungary and Algeria next month, suggesting his groin issue is not too serious. Sweden first travel to the Puskas Arena on June 6th before facing their African opponents, at home, on June 10th.

Last time Isak jetted off with his country he helped himself to a goal and an assist as Sweden ran riot against a young Northern Ireland side in Stockholm. Since returning to club duty, Isak has only found the net four times in his last eight Premier League appearances amid some underwhelming displays by his usual, lofty standards.

Isak's recent setback and latest absence has raised concerns he will need an operation to fix his groin issue over the summer. This, however, has been disputed by Howe in recent days.

"I don't think it is a surgery issue," he told reporters. It's not something that needs mending.

"It is certainly something that needs looking at as to why he's getting groin complaints. But yeah it is definitely not a surgery issue, it's what is he doing to strengthen that area, which we will look at and focus on."

Meanwhile, Isak's club team-mate and fellow countryman, Emil Krafth, has been left out of the upcoming Sweden squad. The versatile defender is fully fit and has played his part from the bench of late but won't be linking up with team-mates in early June.