1 week ago
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Newcastle manager Eddie Howe has responded to Arne Slot's "smaller club" comment made earlier this week.
Alexander Isak, who moved from Newcastle to Liverpool on deadline, was substituted at half-time during the latter team's 5-1 victory over Eintracht Frankfurt in the Champions League on Wednesday due to an injury.
In his post-match comments, Slot suggested that Isak had transferred from a "smaller club," which was perceived as a veiled jab at the North East club, following the summer transfer drama where Isak effectively went on strike to force a move. When asked about Isak's fitness and preparations for the upcoming season, the Dutchman said: "I don't think there's a rule that every single player has the same.
"But it also depends on what he did when he didn't train with the team, what the impact is if you go to a new club as a big signing.
"So you cannot compare, maybe a player who hasn't trained or played in preseason at a smaller club than if you go to Liverpool."
On Friday, Howe defended his club's facilities and insisted that all players are treated with utmost professionalism at Newcastle's Benton HQ base.
Speaking on Friday, Howe chose not to engage with Slot's comments, stating: "I don't think it is wise for me to get involved in those discussions.
"Alex is no longer at this football club. It is best to stay away from it."
When asked about Newcastle's facilities, Howe replied: "The set-up is here is very good.
"It is not perfect, there are things to improve and grow. The owners here have developed the facilities and you can see there is building work going on.
"It is not perfect, there are things to improve and grow. The owners here have developed the facilities, and you can see there is building work going on.
"Hopefully, that will help us be even better in the future.
"But I have no complaints, we have elite athletes here, many of them, touch wood, they are managing pretty well."
When questioned about the magnitude of the club and whether he needed to defend the supporters following Slot's comments, Howe calmly responded: "I don't feel I have to do that."
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