Eddie Howe has backed Liverpool striker Hugo Ekitike to ‘be a threat’ in the Premier League this season. Newcastle United had targeted the 23-year-old this summer as a potential replacement for Alexander Isak, who is currently on strike in an attempt to force through a move away from St James’ Park.

Eddie Howe has put Newcastle chiefs in a difficult position with his latest comments on wantaway striker Alexander Isak. The forward is desperate to leave St James' Park and join Liverpool before the window closes next month. The Reds have already seen a £110million bid rejected by Newcastle, who are determined to avoid selling their prized asset.

Eddie Howe's pre-match press conference for the Liverpool game was dominated by the Alexander Isak situation, but the Newcastle manager also had some good news about Joe Willock