Eddie Howe wants a ‘quick resolution’ to the ‘distraction’ of Alexander Isak’s self-imposed exile, and says the club’s supporters are free to air their feelings towards the want-away Swede.

The Toon Army chanted ‘there’s only one greedy b******’ following Saturday’s goalless draw at Aston Villa, a match in which Isak’s absence was felt as chances went begging.

The striker is trying to force a move to Liverpool, and Howe said: ‘We would like a resolution. I am talking about myself, I am sure the ownership, and the players. We need that clarity. You don’t need any distraction. But I am not in control of that. I think only one person really (Isak) can control that.’

He added: ’This season, any season, every season, is going to be hard enough. You don’t need any kind of distraction to swerve your thoughts, to unbalance what we’re doing.

‘I hope it’s resolved quickly, because it’s news around us all the time. The players have managed to shut that out and perform. We have to continue to do that.’

Of the fan chant aimed at Isak, Howe said: ‘Whatever happens, I think the support has acted really well today because they supported the team, which is always my big ask, to support the team when we’re playing. And they’ve done that unbelievably well in some difficult moments during the four years.

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Eddie Howe wants a ‘quick resolution’ to the Alexander Isak transfer saga

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Isak is refusing to play for Newcastle United amid ongoing links to Premier League champions Liverpool

‘And then if afterwards they want to say something, I think they’re very free to do that.’

Howe reiterated his wish for Isak to return to the squad, and said: ‘Nothing has changed, but the door is well and truly open. But yeah, he has to decide what he wants to do.’