Eddie Howe confirmed Alexander Isak's absence in a preseason match against Celtic was due to transfer speculation linking him with Liverpool. Despite the interest from Liverpool, Howe expressed confidence that Isak would remain with Newcastle United after the transfer window closes on September 1. Howe clarified that the decision to send Isak home was made to protect him from the distraction of the ongoing transfer talks. He also noted that Isak has trained well and maintained professionalism during these uncertain times.
"It was my decision, Howe said postmatch about Isak's absence. He travelled back to Glasgow with us but I decided to send him home due to the speculation around him. The last thing he wanted is to be sat in the stand watching, that wasn't fair to him. But I'm confident he will be a Newcastle player come the end of the window."
"Yes I've had discussions with him, but that's not abnormal, Howe said. I respect a player's career and how short it is. Alex has been really good, he's trained really well and I realise there'll be noise around him."
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