Watch more of our videos on ShotsTV.com
and on Freeview 262 or Freely 565
Visit Shots! now
Alexander Isak is set to start as Newcastle United face Liverpool in the Carabao Cup final at Wembley.
Newcastle United star Alexander Isak is relishing the challenge of facing Liverpool - and Virgil van Dijk.
Newcastle face the Reds in the Carabao Cup final at Wembley on Sunday (kick-off 4:30pm), with Isak expected to lead the line as the club looks to end its 70-year domestic trophy drought.
Arne Slot’s side are 15 points clear at the top of the Premier League table, leading Bruno Guimaraes to call them “the best team in the world”. But Isak isn’t fazed having scored in three of his five matches against them.
Alexander Isak of Newcastle United scores his team's first goal whilst under pressure from Virgil van Dijk of Liverpool during the Premier League match between Newcastle United FC and Liverpool FC at St James' Park on December 04, 2024 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)Alexander Isak of Newcastle United scores his team's first goal whilst under pressure from Virgil van Dijk of Liverpool during the Premier League match between Newcastle United FC and Liverpool FC at St James' Park on December 04, 2024 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
Alexander Isak of Newcastle United scores his team's first goal whilst under pressure from Virgil van Dijk of Liverpool during the Premier League match between Newcastle United FC and Liverpool FC at St James' Park on December 04, 2024 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images) | Getty Images
“I really enjoy the games against Liverpool, because I think they're not too different to ourselves, a high-pressing team and a direct team, which can lead to many counter-opportunities, and that's the game I like,” said Isak.
“I think I've had pretty good success before, I feel good and enjoy playing against them.”
Alexander Isak v Virgil van Dijk
Liverpool captain van Dijk is widely viewed as one of the best defenders in the world, while Isak, with 22 goals to his name this campaign, is being touted as one of the best strikers on the planet.
The 25-year-old got the better of the Dutchman in the early season fixture at St James’ Park after dribbling past him before firing the ball into the net from distance to open the scoring.
When the two teams met at Anfield last month, Isak was left out of United’s squad due to a slight groin issue.
Click here to join NewcastleWorld's dedicated NUFC WhatsApp channel for news, videos and voice notes. CLICK THE BELL FOR NOTIFICATIONS.
Asked about the battle with van Dijk, Isak said: “I wouldn't say I fear anyone. I think that's a strong word. I have a lot of respect for the players I come up against, I have a lot of respect for Van Dijk and their whole defence.
“But yeah, I'm a player who always just focuses on myself. If I do the right things, if I play my best game, then I think I'll benefit my team.
“It's not really a duel, me against one player. I think it's Newcastle against Liverpool, and if we play together, obviously I need my teammates to help me get better. It's a team sport, so it comes down to what we do as a team, and I'll obviously try to use my qualities to make us better.”
Liverpool aware of Alexander Isak threat
Liverpool are well aware that will need to be at their best to stop the Sweden international.
Speaking recently, Slot said: "It is an understatement to say Isak is in fine form. He is in excellent form. The team performance will help us control him. The more ball possession we have the more we can control him although he is dangerous on counter-attacks.
"We have two very good center-backs, which is definitely what you need when you face a striker with the quality of Isak.”
YOUR NEXT READ:Alexander Isak has just made 'dramatic' Newcastle United injury claim ahead of Liverpool final.