Transfer news LIVE: Liverpool make Isak plan clear, Hojlund's Man Utd decision, Eze to Arsenal deadline

Eddie Howe has confessed that Newcastle are having to accept that they may have to work with the squad they've been left with - which is one that doesn't include Alexander Isak as he addressed the saga once again.

"I don't think it's been healthy for us," he said. "I don't deny that's been a big challenge. Alex, for me, is one of the best strikers in the world - if not the best. To miss him from your squad leaves a huge gap."

He also added: "I think morale was certainly affected early on during pre-season. There was nothing I could do to affect that - it was always going to be there.

"When you have a player that good who is not part of your group, it's difficult for the players to fully understand it and to know what's going on and how to react. But, as time has gone on, there has been an acceptance this is the squad and we have got to make the best of the situation."