Eddie Howe's big concern about Alexander Isak to be put to test by Liverpool

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Reds star Alexander Isak is still some way off full fitness, nearly a month after his record move from St James' Park to Liverpool.

The striker left Newcastle in a less than ideal state of match readiness, having declined to participate in pre-season or accompany the team on their Far East tour in order to facilitate his transfer to Liverpool.

Isak netted his first goal for the Reds against Southampton during the Carabao Cup third round, celebrating with his customary thumbs-up gesture.

When ITV enquired about his fitness level, Isak responded: "It's difficult to say.

I feel good, I feel like I'm in a shape to at least make a difference.

"I feel good, I feel good.

I'm just getting more and more ready."

Newcastle staff were concerned that Isak's fitness levels would decline, putting him in a race against time to be fully fit for the new season.

Eddie Howe's most recent comments on Isak's fitness in August were: "Alex had been working individually with our sports science department and they have been getting him fit.



Alexander Isak now has a massive opportunity at the weekend

Match fitness is very different."

Howe has since confessed that his rapport with Isak suffered a blow, stating: "The moment he went on strike our relationship did change and that was probably a turning point in our relationship.

"I loved working with him