Alan Shearer loves the way that Newcastle United have handled the Alexander Isak situation.
It has been a rollercoaster week on Tyneside, as Alexander Isak released a statement regarding his future.
There was talk of promises being broken and trust being gone, as he aims to secure a move away from St James’ Park.
Newcastle responded to Isak with their own statement, informing him that he is unlikely to be sold and that he will be welcomed back into the group when he is ready.
It was a firm response by Newcastle and PIF, who are united on keeping Isak at the club. In the eyes of Alan Shearer, they sent out a clear message to his teammates as well.
Alan Shearer holds a black and white scarf up during Newcastle United's Carabao Cup trophy event.
Photo by Ed Sykes/Getty Images
Alan Shearer explains why Newcastle United’s response to Alexander Isak was so good
Shearer has addressed Newcastle United’s statement on Isak during the latest episode of the Rest Is Football podcast, admitting that he was really impressed with how the club handled the situation.
“I thought it was a really measured, calculated statement from Newcastle,” he said.
“I really did. It sends out a message to others as well. What happens if Tonali wants to leave next year or Bruno wants to leave next year and Newcastle let Isak go just like that. It sends a message out.
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“It’s just been a very messy situation and it’s the players and Eddie who you have to feel sorry for because they are the ones that have got nothing to do with this. They’re the ones that are battling and scrapping to get points while he’s having a huge row.”
Newcastle United have to set a precedent with Alexander Isak
Given everything that has happened this summer, Newcastle are now in a position where they cannot really afford to sell Isak.
The main reason is there is not a viable replacement out there. But the other reason is they would be setting a dangerous precedent if they did give in to Isak’s demands.
If Newcastle sell Isak now, it sends a message to the rest of the Newcastle United squad. They will suddenly know exactly what to do if they want to leave. All you have to do is kick up a fuss, throw your toys out of the pram and back the club into a corner. Selling Isak will make Newcastle look weak, at a time when they want to become serious players in the footballing world.
Newcastle are not holding Isak against his will. Attempts have been made to facilitate an exit, with bids for the likes of Hugo Ekitike and Benjamin Sesko. Unfortunately, they went elsewhere.
There has been a path out of Newcastle for Isak, but only on their terms. And that is the way it should be. Isak has a contract at St James’ Park until 2028, after all.
The club are making it clear they will not be bullied, while the door has also been left wide open for Isak to make a return. He might just have to do that, as a transfer this late in the window seems unfeasible.