| Prefer us on Google — see Tips.gg in Top Stories & Discover | Add on Google |
Alexander Isak returned to St James’ Park for the first time since leaving Newcastle United for Liverpool in a British-record £130 million deal last summer, and the reception from the home crowd was exactly as expected.
The 26-year-old Swedish striker, who scored 62 goals in 109 appearances for the Magpies and netted the winner in the Carabao Cup final at Wembley against his current club, drew boos every time he touched the ball. Missed chances were met with ironic cheers. Isak’s exit had soured his relationship with the fanbase after he refused to train or play to force through the transfer.
The match itself ended 2-2. Anthony Elanga and Joe Willock twice gave Newcastle the lead, with Cody Gakpo and Dominik Szoboszlai equalising each time. Szoboszlai’s leveller came from the penalty spot in the ninth minute of stoppage time after Lewis Hall was penalised for fouling Victor Munoz. Given that Isak had been the designated penalty taker at Newcastle, many expected him to step up and take it.
Isak declined to speak to the media after the final whistle. His response came via Instagram, 16 words that made no mention of the atmosphere he faced.
“Season kicked off. Thank you for the immense support Reds. We go on to the next! #ynwa” — Alexander Isak, Instagram
Liverpool’s manager addressed the situation directly. He suggested Isak was not caught off guard by the hostility, and pointed to his overall contribution despite failing to find the net.
“I think he expected a little bit the atmosphere, I don’t think [it] has been a big surprise for him. 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.”
Read also: Gary Neville Demands Wirtz and Isak Step Up After Liverpool’s Flat Draw at Newcastle
Isak’s form since moving to Merseyside has not matched the level that made him one of Europe’s most coveted strikers. A difficult first Premier League outing, on a ground where he was once celebrated, only adds pressure as the season gets underway. Follow TipsGG for continued coverage of Liverpool and Newcastle United throughout the campaign.