Alexander Isak of Newcastle United celebrates scoring his team's first goal with teammate Dan Burn during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Sheffield United at St. James Park on April 27, 2024 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)placeholder image
Alexander Isak of Newcastle United celebrates scoring his team's first goal with teammate Dan Burn during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Sheffield United at St. James Park on April 27, 2024 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Newcastle United hero Dan Burn has revealed his true feelings towards Alexander Isak after £130m Liverpool transfer.
Isak spent the summer on strike at Newcastle United and ultimately got his wish after completing a British record £130million move to Anfield.
The Swede was regarded as a hero at St James’ Park, with one of his 62 goals for the club helping them to end their 70-year trophy drought in March with a 2-1 victory over Liverpool in the Carabao Cup final in March.
But his actions have tarnished his legacy and left a bitter taste in the mouth of the football club.
Indeed, it was telling that, in Newcastle’s parting statement, they made no reference to Isak’s goals or achievements, and were in no mood to offer thank you or well wishes.
Dan Burn reacts to Alexander Isak’s Newcastle United exit
But Burn, speaking ahead of England’s World Cup qualifier with Andorra on Saturday, insists there is “no animosity” on his part. The 33-year-old, a boyhood Newcastle fan, admits he is glad the saga is over and wishes Isak “nothing but good wishes”
"I am glad it is done,” Burn admitted (via BBC Sport). “We wanted the transfer window closed to have a bit of clarity on it. I have been in football long enough to understand that for a player, the careers are short and they have got things they want to achieve.
"Alex is a mate and it is a tough situation because you want him to be around and helping the team, but also understand for him what he needs to do personally. I have nothing but good wishes for Alex.
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"No animosity. As a Newcastle fan, we are very protective of our club and city and we want players to be there who want to play for Newcastle and you don't want them to naively think that there is anyone else to go apart from Newcastle. So I understand why our fans are frustrated.
"I wish Alex all the best apart from when we play Liverpool, obviously."
What have other Newcastle United players said about Alexander Isak’s exit?
Elanga is currently on Sweden duty with Isak. Asked about the “turbulence” surrounding the Isak saga, the £55m summer signing told Fotbollskanalen: “It's been chill. He had a contract with us and right now he's with Liverpool. But we all think he's a very good player.
“We've lost a good player but we've also signed good players. Hopefully we can look ahead and focus on this season.”
Elanga added: “It's his choice. He chose Liverpool. Best of luck. He is a friend of mine and a fantastic footballer. I get the opportunity to play with him in the national team and that is also good.
“He is a fantastic player and a very good person. Right now, he is a Liverpool player but I have the opportunity to play with him in the national team.”
Meanwhile, both Sven Botman and Anthony Gordon were the only Newcastle players to send public messages to Isak.
Botman said: “What started off as teammates growed in one of my rare best friendships. No words needed brother. All the best in your next chapter.”
Gordon wrote: “Regardless of the situation & what’s gone on, it’s been a pleasure to play with you. One of the best chemistries I’ve had on the pitch and more importantly a great person and teammate. I wish you nothing but the best brother.”
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