Ian Doyle with the main talking point from Liverpool’s Premier League opener at Newcastle United on Sunday afternoon
19:06, 23 Aug 2026Updated 22:51, 23 Aug 2026
Alexander Isak (Photo by Molly Darlington/Getty Images)
Alexander Isak hadn’t even got as far as the entrance to St James’ Park when he was given a taste of what to expect.
The Liverpool striker, making his first return to Newcastle United following his controversial £125million move to Anfield last September, was serenaded by chants of “rat” by the waiting home supporters as he made the short scurry from the team coach to inside the stadium.
He was afforded similar treatment during the warm-up and couldn’t resist a wry smile as he was booed on his way back down the tunnel.
It was therefore almost as though Liverpool were goading the home support with Isak being invited to start the game, with the first half in the stands a tale of X-rated chants towards a player whose every touch was greeted with ear-piercing catcalls.
There were, though, cheers when referee Stuart Attwell failed to penalise what appeared a foul on Isak, leaving the striker irate on the turf.
That was one of the rare occasions when Isak touched the ball during a first half in which he was increasingly isolated as the Reds floundered to hit their attacking stride.
And when the Sweden international was finally presented an opportunity after the break when teed up by Cody Gakpo, his ballooned shot brought a predictable response from the Magpies faithful.
If unlocking Isak will be key for new Reds coach Andoni Iraola this season, this was a painful reminder of how predecessor Arne Slot, admittedly with the striker being injured for large stretches, struggled to do so last season.
Florian Wirtz, the expected main service channel, is another for whom more should be expected this term. Worrying, then, that while he couldn’t be faulted for effort here, the Germany international flattered to deceive before being hooked midway through the second half.
One positive for Isak was that he lasted the duration of the game for the first time as a Liverpool player, meaning he was still on the field when Dominik Szoboszlai despatched the dramatic equaliser from the penalty spot.
Cue further abuse from those remaining inside the stadium as Isak finally made his way from the field after full-time.
This wasn’t quite the start the player or Liverpool wanted this season. The hard work, though, is only just beginning for the Reds to finally realise the potential of their record buy.
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