“SHOCKING REASON Alexander Isak SKIPS Arsenal vs Newcastle Clash – Explosive Statement Drops JAW-DROPPING Truth!”

Newcastle United centre-back Sven Botman returned to the starting XI against Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium, despite missing early-week training due to a knee issue.

The Magpies had concerns over his availability, but Botman was ultimately cleared to play and slotted into an unchanged defence from the 2-0 victory over Chelsea at St James’ Park.

There was a surprise omission, however, as Alexander Isak missed out with a minor groin injury.

Callum Wilson led the line in his place, still searching for his first goal of the season after a spell out through injury.

A Newcastle statement read: “Alexander Isak misses out with a minor groin injury.”

Botman had been substituted in the 55th minute of last Sunday’s win over Chelsea, raising doubts about his fitness.

But he returned to action in a three-man defence alongside Fabian Schar and Dan Burn. Tino Livramento and Jacob Murphy operated as wing-backs.

Head coach Eddie Howe addressed Botman’s injury concerns in his Friday press conference, saying: “It’s not serious. The ACL was different — that came from a knock.

This is similar. He’s just been unlucky. There’s frustration, of course. I’ve been there — setbacks keep coming, and it’s out of your control.”

Despite those worries, Botman travelled with the squad to London and was deemed fit for the key Premier League clash.

Starting XI: Pope; Schar, Botman, Burn; Murphy, Livramento; Tonali, Bruno; Barnes, Gordon, Wilson.

Substitutes: Dubravka, Ruddy, Krafth, Lascelles, Longstaff, Miley, Osula, Neave, Willock.