Alexander Isak issues 16-word statement after brutal Newcastle United reception
Former Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak was given a hostile reception on his return to St James’ Park with Liverpool.
Former Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak received a hostile reception on his return to St James’ Park with Liverpool on Sunday.
Isak was back on Tyneside for the first time since joining the Reds for a British-record £130million last summer. The 26-year-old tarnished his Newcastle legacy after refusing to train or play in order to force through a move.
The Swede scored 62 goals in 109 appearances for the Magpies. Months before his exit, Isak netted the winning goal in the Carabao Cup final at Wembley against his current employers as United ended their 56-year trophy drought.
The Gazette has launched a WhatsApp NUFC channel to bring the latest news, analysis and team & injury updates directly to your phone. Simply click this link to join our NUFC WhatsApp channel.
Isak was regarded as one of the deadliest strikers in Europe, hence the fee Liverpool paid for him. However, he hasn’t come close to replicating that form on Merseyside.
Newcastle supporters took great pleasure as Isak’s struggles continued on his St James’ Park return. The striker was vociferously booed every time he touched the ball, while his missed chances led to ironic cheers from the home fans.
Alexander Isak posts message Newcastle United return
The two teams played out a 2-2 draw on the opening day of the Premier League season. Anthony Elanga and Joe Willock twice gave Newcastle the lead, but Cody Gakpo and Dominik Szoboszlai levelled each time.
Szoboszlai’s equaliser came from the penalty spot in the ninth minute of stoppage time after Lewis Hall was penalised for a foul on Victor Munoz. With Isak previously assuming the penalty-taker responsibility at Newcastle, many expected him to step up.
Despite requests, Isak didn’t speak to the media after the game. He instead delivered a brief verdict on social media, though made no reference to the reception he received.
“Season kicked off,” Isak wrote on Instagram. “Thank you for the immense support Reds. We go on to the next! #ynwa”.
How did Alexander Isak feel about the hostile reception?
Liverpool boss Andoni Iraola believes Isak expected a hostile reception.
“I think he expected a little bit the atmosphere, I don't think [it] has been a big surprise for him,” he said. “I think he has tried everything, has given us good positions on the ball.
“[He] probably has had a couple of situations to finish inside the box, but probably not the clearest that he wanted or we wanted, but I value that. He has continued pushing on in the game, fighting, and I think it's a good step for Alex for being the first game.”