Speaking before the match, manager Eddie Howe and defender Dan Burn addressed the media, fielding questions about the forward’s uncertain situation. Isak, who scored 27 goals across all competitions last season, has openly expressed his desire to leave the club this summer, amid strong interest from Liverpool.

Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe insisted that the Magpies are still waiting for a formal offer for notable Liverpool target Alexander Isak. The Premier League champions were reportedly tipped to make a record-breaking bid for Isak in the region of £120 million ($160 million) in the middle of July.

Eddie Howe has said that Alexander Isak's future at the club is not fully in his control as speculation surrounding his star striker continues to grow.