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Jeremie Frimpong has become the first Liverpool player to publicly acknowledge Alexander Isak’s move to the club.
The striker joined from Newcastle on transfer deadline day, sealing a record-breaking £125 million ($169M) move to the Premier League champions following a transfer saga that dominated the summer window. Newcastle made its feelings clear on the manner of Isak’s exit by releasing just a 37-word statement on its club website to confirm the player’s transfer.
The Magpies did not wish Isak luck for the future, nor acknowledge any of his achievements at St. James’ Park. Newcastle’s players have been less resentful on their personal social media accounts, with some posting good luck messages since Monday’s update.
“Regardless of the situation and what’s gone on. It’s been a pleasure to play with you,” wrote Anthony Gordon on Instagram. “One of the best chemistries I’ve had on the pitch and more importantly, a great person and teammate. I wish you nothing but the best brother.”
Liverpool players have been more reserved, with the majority currently on international duty.
Only a handful have not been called up by their countries, and those facing two weeks without a match have been given some time off.
Only two players have been at the AXA Training Centre in recent days: Stefan Bajcetic and Frimpong. Both are undergoing rehab on injuries, with Frimpong’s recent hamstring issue denying him the chance to meet up with the Netherlands squad.
He was the only Liverpool player pictured during Isak’s unveiling video. On social media, Frimpong posted two pictures of the players speaking at Kirkby, along with the caption: “Welcome my g”.
Whether either will be available to start Liverpool’s next match against Burnley remains unclear, certainly after Dominik Szoboszlai’s outstanding display at right-back in each of the last two matches.
Frimpong will hope to be fit for the trip to Turf Moor and is expected back after the international break, while Isak has admitted fitness is an issue for him after training away from the Newcastle squad this summer.
Asked during his Q&A with the club website whether he hoped to be available for the Burnley game, Isak replied: “Yeah, of course, I think that’s the ambition.
“However, I’ve had a tricky summer where I haven’t played any games and I’ve had restricted training, so I think that’s one to judge and to analyse where I am at and how much I am ready to give. But I certainly want to play as soon as possible.”
Isak was pictured training with the Sweden squad on Tuesday, and he hopes to regain some fitness in the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Slovenia and Kosovo.
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