NEWCASTLE hitman Alexander Isak is relishing the chance to square up to Liverpool at Wembley.
Because the Swede just loves playing against the Reds.
Isak made his Toon debut at Anfield following his move from Real Sociedad. He scored then and has found the net twice more against Liverpool, including in the 3-3 thriller at St James' Park in December.
Many strikers are intimidated facing the champions-elect but not Isak. He said: "I wouldn't say I fear anyone. That's a strong word.
"I have a lot of respect for van Dijk and their whole defence.
"I really enjoy games against Liverpool because I think they're not too different to ourselves a high-pressing team and a direct team which can lead to many counter-opportunities. And that's the game I like.
"I think I've had pretty good success before. I feel good and enjoy playing against them."
Newcastle skipper Bruno Guimaraes has hailed Isak as the best striker in world football and he is widely regarded as one of Europe's top forwards right now.
But what does the man himself think? Is he the world's best striker? He said: "I can't answer that.
"I'm enjoying my football and I'm enjoying where I'm at. But I would never really put that tag on myself.
"That is for others to judge though I am certainly happy with where I'm at in my career right now."
Music to the ears of the Toon Army who have been fed a diet of speculation about Isak's future. Newcastle CEO Darren Eales recently hinted the club would open contract talks with the 25-year-old eve...
Because the Swede just loves playing against the Reds.
Isak made his Toon debut at Anfield following his move from Real Sociedad. He scored then and has found the net twice more against Liverpool, including in the 3-3 thriller at St James' Park in December.
Many strikers are intimidated facing the champions-elect but not Isak. He said: "I wouldn't say I fear anyone. That's a strong word.
"I have a lot of respect for van Dijk and their whole defence.
"I really enjoy games against Liverpool because I think they're not too different to ourselves a high-pressing team and a direct team which can lead to many counter-opportunities. And that's the game I like.
"I think I've had pretty good success before. I feel good and enjoy playing against them."
Newcastle skipper Bruno Guimaraes has hailed Isak as the best striker in world football and he is widely regarded as one of Europe's top forwards right now.
But what does the man himself think? Is he the world's best striker? He said: "I can't answer that.
"I'm enjoying my football and I'm enjoying where I'm at. But I would never really put that tag on myself.
"That is for others to judge though I am certainly happy with where I'm at in my career right now."
Music to the ears of the Toon Army who have been fed a diet of speculation about Isak's future. Newcastle CEO Darren Eales recently hinted the club would open contract talks with the 25-year-old eve...
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Daily Record (Digital) - 1 Issue, March 15, 2025