Alexander Isak was greeted with chants of “rat” from home supporters as he arrived at St James’ Park for his first return to Newcastle United since his £125million move to Liverpool. The striker was booed during the warm-up and responded with a wry smile as he headed back down the tunnel.
Hostile reception throughout
Liverpool appeared to provoke the home crowd by starting Isak, whose every touch was met with loud jeers. There were cheers when referee Stuart Attwell did not penalise an apparent foul on the striker, leaving him frustrated on the ground.
Isak touched the ball rarely in a first half where he became increasingly isolated as Liverpool struggled to find their attacking rhythm. After the break, when teed up by Cody Gakpo, his ballooned shot drew a predictable reaction from the Newcastle fans.
Concerns over service and form
Unlocking Isak will be key for new Reds coach Andoni Iraola this season, but this match was a reminder of how predecessor Arne Slot struggled to do so last term, with the striker injured for large stretches. Florian Wirtz, expected to be the main service channel, could not be faulted for effort but flattered to deceive before being substituted midway through the second half.
A first full game and late drama
One positive for Isak was that he lasted the full duration for the first time as a Liverpool player, meaning he was on the field when Dominik Szoboszlai scored the dramatic equaliser from the penalty spot. Further abuse followed from those remaining inside the stadium as Isak made his way off after full-time.
This was not the start the player or Liverpool wanted this season, and the hard work is only just beginning for the Reds to finally realise the potential of their record buy.
