Newcastle manager Eddie Howe believes Alexander Isak would not be at the level he is today without the club’s support as he confirmed there has been “no change” over the transfer standoff. The wantaway Swede is said to have no desire to reintegrate into the team as he continues to force a move to Liverpool.

This skill set dictates that few Premier League counterparts can be better equipped to confront a problem such as Alexander Isak. Yet, behind a resolutely brave face, even Newcastle’s manager acknowledges, albeit tacitly, that he has lost control of the situation.