Eddie Howe speaks out on Isak's 'sad' statement - and tells him to keep quiet

Eddie Howe has admitted his sadness at Alexander Isak's explosive statement as the Newcastle forward pushes to secure a move to Liverpool.

Isak broke his silence on his strike and ongoing transfer saga on Tuesday night, with the 25-year-old claiming that trust has been lost and that a change was best for all parties.

Newcastle hit back at the forward, insisting they had listened to and tried to facilitate his wishes, before adding that they now expect to welcome him back into the squad.

Howe confirmed Isak will not be available to face Liverpool on Monday, but has expressed his desire to see the forward return to Newcastle's first team.

'It was a sad moment,' Howe said, reflecting on Isak's statement.

'My preference is these things do not happen publicly. They are better dealt with behind closed doors. But needs must. The club has spoken, and justifiably so in that moment.

'He’s contracted to us, he’s our player.

'My wish is that he would be playing on Monday. He won’t be and that’s regrettable. But 100 per cent I want him back in a Newcastle shirt.'