Alexander Isak reportedly told Eddie Howe he wanted to quit well in advance of this summer’s transfer saga.
Howe was asked if he feared that Isak would not be available for the Champions League campaign on the day Newcastle clinched qualification back in May, despite a 1-0 defeat by Everton.
Howe told reporters: “Trust me, when that final whistle went, that (Isak leaving) was the furthest thing from my mind.
“It was just a feeling of relief really because we were hunting that prize all season.
“We were in and around it after a really good run in December. I was not thinking of any individual in that moment, so I can’t really give an answer on that.”
Howe’s comments suggest that he is being more than genuine on Isak’s situation and any early warnings that the striker wanted to quit.
Isak himself stated in a Press conference back in March that he intended to sit down with the club to discuss a new deal.
Howe was then asked if he thought that Champions League qualification helped assure him Isak would not leave and pour cold water on transfer talk long before Liverpool placed a bid for the Sweden star.
Howe said: “It was not dependent on Alex. My thinking was not just on one player.
“Qualification was important for the squad in general. We have some outstanding players who want to play and compete in the best competitions.
“So certainly, I had a feeling that would help us keep the majority of the squad. I’m sure we have players coveted by other clubs so that is a big part of what we need to do on a regular basis.
“We need to keep the momentum in the club with performances and results for long-term success.”
(Chronicle live)