Waugh: Howe was afforded an extension under Dan Ashworth during the summer of 2022 and, in secret, he was given another deal the following off-season. That was only revealed in July last year by Eales when he was asked directly by The Athletic during a video call with reporters.

For Eddie Howe, the disruption comes at a particularly poor time. Isak was central to Newcastle’s attack last season and is regarded as one of the most technically gifted forwards in the league. Losing him for any stretch, especially amid public acrimony, puts additional strain on squad depth and morale.