Why Alexander Isak left Liverpool immediately via jet before transfer was announced

Alexander Isak has already departed Liverpool moments after completing his British record move. The Swedish striker secured a $176 million transfer from Newcastle to Anfield on deadline day - but by the time the deal was formally announced, he was on a jet out of the city.

He spent the entire day on Merseyside finalising a deal that included a medical examination and fulfilling media obligations. Whilst Isak might believe he deserves some respite after confirming his transfer, there will be no such luxury.

The 25-year-old immediately headed to the airport to catch a flight to Sweden and join up with his national squad for the international break. Sweden face Slovenia and Kosovo in World Cup qualifiers over the coming fortnight.

Speaking before Isak's Anfield switch was announced, manager Jon Dahl Tomasson said: "I spoke to Alex yesterday and this morning. We expect him here today. He is extremely professional and has a good mentality.

"He is very stable and controlled. We have no worries. He's not able to play for 90 minutes, but he can be a game-changer."

Isak has been absent from football entirely for three months, yet he retains his spot in the national team squad. The forward has earned 52 caps for his country since his 2017 debut and netted 16 goals.

Following confirmation as a Liverpool player, Isak said: "I feel amazing. It's been a long journey to get here. But I'm super-happy to be a part of this team, this club and everything it stands for. It's something I'm proud of and I'm really looking forward to it.

"I'm just happy it's done and that I can get back to work. I'm looking forward to seeing my teammates and the fans, and getting back out there."

He added: "I think I have a lot to give, I think I have a lot to improve. I'm a striker but I always want to give as much as possible to the team, mainly goals but much more than that as well. I want to win everything. Yeah, [as simple as that]."

Whilst Isak will now be concentrating on his international duties, he will undoubtedly be eagerly anticipating his Liverpool bow. The Reds' upcoming Premier League fixture sees them face newly-promoted Burnley on Sunday 14 December.

Isak could subsequently make his Champions League debut for his new side just three days afterwards when Liverpool host Atletico Madrid at Anfield. The Merseyside derby at Anfield then follows that encounter.

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