
Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak has revealed his childhood admiration for Liverpool ahead of their highly anticipated Carabao Cup final clash this weekend. The Swedish international, who joined Newcastle in a club-record £63 million deal last year, admitted he grew up supporting the Merseyside giants.
Boyhood Dreams Meet Professional Reality
"I was a Liverpool fan growing up," Isak confessed in a recent interview. "They were my team as a kid, so this final will be extra special for me." The 24-year-old forward now finds himself in the unique position of trying to defeat his childhood heroes to secure Newcastle's first major trophy since 1969.
A Test of Loyalties
While Isak's personal connection to Liverpool adds an intriguing subplot to Sunday's Wembley showdown, the striker insists his focus remains firmly on delivering silverware for Newcastle. "Of course I have respect for Liverpool, but now I play for Newcastle and we want to win this trophy," he stated.
Newcastle's Trophy Drought
The Magpies haven't lifted a domestic cup since their 1955 FA Cup triumph, with their last major honour being the 1969 Inter-Cities Fairs Cup. Manager Eddie Howe sees the Carabao Cup as a potential springboard for the club's ambitious project under Saudi ownership.
Injury Concerns and Comeback
Isak's participation in the final comes after recent injury concerns that saw him miss several Premier League matches. "I'm feeling good now," the striker confirmed. "The medical team have done excellent work to get me ready for this game."
With 14 goals in all competitions this season, Isak has become a key figure in Newcastle's attack since his arrival from Real Sociedad. His pace and clinical finishing could prove decisive against a Liverpool side missing several defensive regulars.
Wembley Awaits
As both teams prepare for their trip to the national stadium, Isak acknowledged the significance of the occasion: "Wembley finals don't come around often. We know what this means to our fans after such a long wait."
The stage is set for a fascinating encounter between one of England's most successful clubs and a Newcastle side desperate to end their trophy drought. For Alexander Isak, it represents both a professional challenge and a personal milestone against the club that first captured his footballing imagination.