Alexander Isak has defended his controversial move from Newcastle to Liverpool and insists “not everyone has the full picture” over his departure from St James’ Park.
Isak joined Liverpool on transfer deadline day for a British record £125million after a summer-long saga involving claims and counter claims.
Having missed United’s pre-season tour of Asia, the 25-year-old went on social media last month to suggest “promises were made” regarding an exit from Newcastle, only for the club to respond almost immediately to say “no commitment has ever been made by a club official that Alex can leave Newcastle United this summer.”
Isak eventually got his move but there is a lingering bitterness on Tyneside.
The striker made his first appearance in three months last night as Sweden suffered a surprise 2-0 defeat to Kosovo in a World Cup qualifier, coming on for former club-mate Anthony Elanga for the final 18 minutes.
Isak hints again at broken promises by Newcastle
Afterwards, he said there was more to his transfer than meets the eye.
“It’s the way it is. Not everyone has the full picture, but it’s a discussion for another day,” said Isak in remarks reported by Expressen. “Right now there is disappointment over this match [against Kosovo] and how it has gone.
“I can’t control everything that is said or written but I’m glad I became a Liverpool player. That’s what I wanted and I’m happy about that.
“There is a lot to discuss, and it can be discussed for a long time. It has been educational, and I’m happy with the final result.
“I’m happy and proud to be a Liverpool player. I don’t want to go into details or talk about that situation too much. It is a closed chapter, but I have never had any problems.
“It’s been a fairly new situation for me, but you always learn and develop mentally off the pitch too.”
Isak to train with Liverpool this week
Asked if he had received abuse from angry Newcastle fans, he added: “You get hate when you play good games too. There are always people who are dissatisfied. Unfortunately, it’s something you have to live with.”
Isak will now return to Merseyside and train with his new team-mates for the first time. He is expected to be in the squad for Sunday’s Premier League trip to Burnley.
