Viktor Gyokeres and Alexander Isak bear much of Sweden’s hopes for the upcoming World Cup.
Viktor Gyokeres has congratulated Alexander Isak for downing tools at Newcastle United - insisting the shoe is often on the other foot between clubs and players.
Gyokeres - who himself failed to turn up to Sporting Lisbon training while agitating for an Arsenal move - partners Isak up front for his country. Alongside new Toon ace Anthony Elanga, the trio are part of a golden generation in Swedish football.
Isak is the crown jewel - a tag he also held at Newcastle until recently. The 25-year-old burned his bridges at St James’ Park, having previously held legendary status among supporters.
Alexander Isak legacy destroyed
Isak scored 62 goals across all competitions, helped the Magpies reach the Champions League twice and win their first domestic trophy for 70 years - netting against Liverpool in the final. He effectively had the keys to the city before going on strike over the summer.
After failing to train or play, going AWOL at former club Real Sociedad and releasing a damning statement attacking Newcastle, few supporters are left with any good feelings towards the striker. A six-week silence ended yesterday when Isak finally addressed Toon fans - but many believe his words came too late.
Viktor Gyokeres defends Alexander Isak
International teammate Gyokeres - who eventually got a big-money move to Arsenal - has now defended Isak for his recent conduct on Tyneside. He told Sky Sports: "I congratulated Isak for the move.
“I don't really know the situation exactly, so it's difficult for me to speak about that. When it's a player that is not wanted in a club I think it's the total opposite, he doesn't have any power, the club can literally do whatever they want."
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Viktor Gyokeres on strike partnership
The Gunners forward also opened up on the duo’s strike partnership that is integral to Sweden’s potential future success. Gyokeres added: "It's always good to have good players in the national team. We of course want to reach the World Cup next year and if we have the best players available in the team that's of course going to help.
"We played a few games together and felt very good. He's scored, I've scored and we've assisted each other. I think it's good to keep going on that path and improve more with the team."
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