Arne Slot gives five-word response to Newcastle fans’ anger over Alexander Isak saga

Liverpool take on Newcastle on Monday evening in a Premier League game that has taken on a fresh complexion amid Alexander Isak’s desire to complete a sensational switch to Liverpool

Arne Slot doubts whether his Liverpool side will face a vicious Newcastle crowd on Monday night – because St James’ Park is already so loud. Liverpool travel to the North East for their second Premier League game of the season.

While Newcastle are still searching for their first win of the campaign, the home side have potentially been given even more motivation ahead of the game. Striker Alexander Isak is at the heart of a long-running transfer saga between the two clubs.

The Swede has already expressed his desire to move to Anfield despite Liverpool having seen a bid in excess of £100m turned down. He remains away from first-team training and is not expected to play any time soon.

Asked if his side could face an even more daunting atmosphere at St James’ Park given the saga, Slot replied: “If that is even possible…” He added: “Because it was very intense the last time we played there as well. It’s actually always that way when Newcastle play a home game, let alone an evening game.

“It’s always so, so, so intense. So I don’t know if that is an extra reason for them. I don’t even know if it is what the players and the manager are thinking as well.

READ MORE: Transfer News LIVE: Liverpool face Isak D-Day, Arsenal eye another Spurs hijack, Man Utd keeper latestREAD MORE: Florian Wirtz makes feelings clear on Liverpool transfer – ‘It wasn’t an easy decision’

“Of course, social media and people write a lot, but is this truly what the players are thinking and the manager is thinking? I don’t know. I have no clue.”

Slot’s comments come after the Liverpool boss has received two warnings from the Newcastle camp regarding the reception that his side could receive. Speaking after his side’s 0-0 draw with Aston Villa, Anthony Gordon said: “With everything that’s gone on I’m sure the atmosphere is going to be a bit wild!

“I’ll be excited to see the home fans again, get back in the stadium. It’s going to be a top game.”

Will Alexander Isak still be a Newcastle player when the transfer window closes? Share your thoughts in the comments below

Meanwhile, Eddie Howe is also expecting a boisterous atmosphere in his side’s opening home game of the campaign. Speaking in his pre-match press conference, he said: “The first home game is always going to be electric. Under the lights, evening games are always really special for us.

“I have no doubt this will be a really passionate display from the home support. We need to use that – but not be reckless with it. We’ve got to concentrate and deliver our game plan, but using the energy from the crowd will be vital for us.”

Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.