Newcastle fans sent a message to Alexander Isak by unfurling a banner aimed at the wantaway striker before kick-off in their clash with Liverpool.
Isak has gone on strike at Newcastle in an attempt to force a move to Arne Slot’s side, who had a bid of £110million for the Swedish star rejected earlier this summer.
The 25-year-old was again absent from the squad for the eagerly anticipated clash with Liverpool at St James’ Park.
Newcastle supporters inside the stadium revealed a banner ahead of kick-off which appeared to be directed at Isak, who has not trained with the squad or played for Eddie Howe’s side so far this season.
It read: ‘Nothing Is Achieved Alone. We Are A City. A Whole Population.’
The banner was seemingly aimed at stressing togetherness amid the Isak saga, which has dominated the summer transfer window.
Newcastle fans sent a defiant message to Alexander Isak ahead of the Liverpool match
Isak has gone on strike to force a move to Liverpool and has not played for the Magpies this season
Liverpool
Arsenal
*18+, excludes NI. Terms and conditions apply
The striker last week posted an incendiary message on social media, accusing the club of going back on promises and warning how trust had been lost as he publicly stated his desire to leave Newcastle.
Newcastle, though, have been unable to sign the two strikers – they are struggling to bring in one – that would have allowed them to negotiate with suitors Liverpool.
In a club statement in response, Newcastle said: ‘We have been clear that the conditions of a sale this summer have not transpired. We do not foresee those conditions being met.’
Newcastle have strengthened their stance on Isak staying at the club and on Monday Daily Mail Sport’s Craig Hope revealed the club’s co-owner, Jamie Reuben, and a PIF delegation had spoken to the player at his home.
The meeting was held in an attempt to convince him to stay at the club and return to Eddie Howe’s squad.
The club want the Swedish striker to return to training and playing for the Magpies. It is understood that a new contract would be part of discussions, if Isak committed himself to the club this season.
It has always been the club’s preference to keep Isak, and with time running out in the transfer window, they are determined to see him be reintegrated into Howe’s squad. Sources believe this meeting is a step in the right direction.
Newcastle had earlier been dealt another blow in their pursuit of a striker after Wolves rejected a £50m bid from the club for Wolves’ Jorgen Strand Larsen.
