Alexander Isak has spoken about his hostile return to Newcastle United with Liverpool, including being called a “rat” by supporters at St James’ Park.
The Liverpool striker has also responded to Alan Shearer’s comments after The Reds’ 2-2 draw there. Anthony Elanga and Joe Willock scored for Matthias Jaissle’s Magpies, with Cody Gakpo getting one in-between before a spot-kick was given.
The Newcastle United legend was surprised Isak didn’t take the late penalty which Dominik Szoboszlai converted.
Isak, though, doesn’t seem particularly interested in reopening either debate. Especially while he’s away with the Swedish national team.
Isak on Newcastle United reception and Shearer’s penalty comments
Speaking to Swedish outlet Fotbollskanalen, Isak admitted going back to St James’ Park felt different. He knew exactly what sort of reception was coming.
“It was special. I was prepared for the atmosphere, so it was a special match.”
The 27-year-old then addressed that late penalty: “Szoboszlai was the penalty taker for that match.”
Shearer had questioned why Isak didn’t take it himself. The Liverpool striker made it pretty clear that the decision had already been made.
“It’s a bit irrelevant. Those are team matters and it’s not for the media or the supporters to decide who should take a penalty.”
Asked whether he wanted to take it anyway, Isak added: “I’m always hungry.”
That probably tells the story. He fancied it, as any striker would, but Szoboszlai had the responsibility that day. And Isak has certainly had enough going on without turning Liverpool’s penalty hierarchy into another saga.
There is some history he wouldn’t want to repeat. His final year at Newcastle United ended with the messy transfer which eventually took him to Anfield.
“I’ve been focused on having a good season considering last year. It’s not about redemption, but about having normal ambitions to do well. I’ve had a good start, but it’s still very early. I shouldn’t talk too much about it.”
| Statistic | Newcastle United | Liverpool |
|---|---|---|
| Appearances | 86 | 19 |
| Starts | 78 | 13 |
| Minutes played | 6,533 | 1,112 |
| Goals | 54 | 7 |
| Assists | 9 | 1 |
| Goals + assists | 63 | 8 |
| Minutes per goal | 121 | 159 |
| Goals per 90 minutes | 0.74 | 0.57 |
Liverpool are already asking for more
That good start means four goals from five Premier League appearances. More importantly after his injury problems, Isak feels considerably better physically.
“It means a lot. If you compare it to last year, I feel I’m in a much better place now physically and in every possible way.”
Liverpool haven’t asked Sweden to protect him during this international break either.
“No, nothing. Graham is free to use me, but it’s four matches in a short period, so we’ll need to look at playing time for the sake of the team. If you play four lots of 90 minutes, maybe you don’t give your best, but I feel good and there shouldn’t be any problems.”
Andoni Iraola isn’t satisfied simply because the goals have returned. The Liverpool manager wants Isak more involved in matches. His striker agrees.
“I agree. There are many matches where I feel I should and want to contribute more and be more involved. There’s nothing strange about that.”
There is clearly still work to do at Liverpool, and Isak thinks that applies to the team as a whole. Also, his first impressions of Iraola’s side are positive, particularly without the ball.
“My first feeling is that we’re more stable defensively. Then we have a lot to improve offensively. The foundations are there and the bar is high.”
For Isak personally, four goals from five league matches isn’t a bad foundation either. The Newcastle return is now out of the way, complete with abuse from the stands and questions from Shearer. Isak seems quite happy to leave both at St James’ Park and get on with his Liverpool career.
