Newcastle United players are mixed following Alexander Isak’s refusal to represent the club.
Newcastle United players are reportedly torn on wantaway striker Alexander Isak’s wish to join Liverpool.
The Swede has abandoned his Toon teammates since he refused to play against Celtic on July 19. When he pulled out of the club’s pre-season tour days later with a minor thigh injury, it soon became clear where his intentions lie.
Isak told Newcastle officials that he wants to leave and is training alone in order to force a move. As of yet, one bid - worth around £110million from Liverpool - is all the Magpies have received.
Newcastle United dressing room reaction
Eddie Howe has weaponised the Isak saga to his advantage - as was evident at Aston Villa on Saturday. Newcastle showed togetherness - albeit a lack of cutting edge up front - to feel hard done by with a draw.
The Daily Mail claims team spirit is high but the squad remains split on Isak’s future. There has been no bitter fallout between the squad or manager regarding the striker’s off-field conduct.
It is not named who has sided with Isak as he continues to down tools over a move to Liverpool. Sven Botman is known to be his closest friend at the club but to suggest he has taken this stance would be speculating.
Alexander Isak statement in full
Isak’s statement failed to directly acknowledge Howe or the Newcastle supporters. He wrote on Instagram: “I've kept quiet for a long time while others have spoken. That silence has allowed people to push their own version of events, even though they know it doesn't reflect what was really said and agreed behind closed doors.
"The reality is that promises were made and the club has known my position for a long time. To now act as if these issues are only emerging is misleading.
"When promises are broken and trust is lost, the relationship can't continue. That's where things are for me right now - and why change is in the best interests of everyone, not just myself."
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Newcastle United response
“We are disappointed to have been alerted to a social media post by Alexander Isak this evening,” the announcement read. “We are clear in response that Alex remains under contract and that no commitment has ever been made by a club official that Alex can leave Newcastle United this summer.
“We want to keep our best players, but we also understand players have their own wishes and we listen to their views. As explained to Alex and his representatives, we must always take into consideration the best interests of Newcastle United, the team and our supporters in all decisions and we have been clear that the conditions of a sale this summer have not transpired.
“We do not foresee those conditions being met. This is a proud football club with proud traditions and we strive to retain our family feel. Alex remains part of our family and will be welcomed back when he is ready to rejoin his teammates.”
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