United welcome Fabian Hürzeler's side to St. James' Park on Sunday (kick-off 1:45pm GMT), with a place in the quarter-finals up for grabs.

Isak missed Wednesday night's 2-0 Premier League defeat at Liverpool with a slight groin problem, which head coach Howe says is not a long-term issue.

But he wouldn't be drawn on whether or not the Swedish international would be ready to return to action against the Seagulls as United bid to make sure of their place in the last eight of the game's most famous domestic cup competition.

Howe spoke to the media on Friday morning. Here are some of the main talking points from his pre-match briefing:

On Isak's fitness...

"I haven't seen him since the game (against Liverpool). We don't think it is a long-term problem, but there was no risk taken on Wednesday and there can’t be at this stage of the season.

"We will see how he is today and have a discussion with him. If he's fit, he'll play."

On the other team news from the Magpies camp...

"Callum (Wilson) is OK - he took a cut to his eye, but he will be OK.

"Sven (Botman) and Joe (Joelinton) have a chance - today is big day for him. Today we will see how close they are, whether they train with the team for the first time or not. Knowing both players, they will be keen to be involved."

On the Emirates FA Cup and the challenge ahead...

"It is a huge competition. We know the importance of it - we don’t take it lightly.

"This will be a tough game. Brighton are in great form. This should be a really exciting cup tie.

"Their away form has been very strong. It will be a test for us, but one I am sure we can rise to."

On his side's mentality...

"We are always pushing, always wanting more. The challenge for us is to still be in all competitions after this weekend.

"We want to give everything to try and get into the next round."