‘People don’t have the full picture’ – Swedish-Eritrean Alexander Isak defends Newcastle exit

Liverpool striker Alexander Isak has broken his silence on his acrimonious departure from Newcastle United, insisting there is more to the story than has been made public.

Isak, who was born in Sweden to Eritrean parents, sealed a high-profile move to Liverpool on deadline day in a deal worth a Premier League-record £130 million.

His transfer followed weeks of speculation and a personal statement in August where he declared his relationship with Newcastle “couldn’t continue.”

The 25-year-old returned to action on Monday night as Sweden suffered a 2-0 defeat to Kosovo in a World Cup qualifier.

Coming on in the 72nd minute, Isak produced three attempts on goal, two of which were on target, but was unable to alter the result. He was also booked for an altercation with Kosovo defender Fidan Aliti.

Speaking after the match, Isak addressed his move away from St James’ Park: “Not everyone has the full picture, but that’s something for another day. I can’t control everything that’s said or written. But I’m happy that I became a Liverpool player.”

He added that the resolution of his future before joining Sweden’s squad was crucial for his focus.

“It’s great that everything was settled before the camp and that I could focus on playing football again. It’s been a fairly new situation for me, but you always learn and develop mentally off the pitch as well.”

Isak, who has yet to make his Liverpool debut, is expected to be eased into Arne Slot’s side following his lack of pre-season training and match fitness.

His next opportunity could come after the international break, with Liverpool facing a congested domestic and European schedule.