Viktor Gyokeres stands his ground in awkward exchange over Alexander Isak saga

Viktor Gyokeres and Alexander Isak were both involved in significant transfer sagas this summer as they earned moves to Arsenal and Liverpool respectively with tense ends with their previous sides

Viktor Gyokeres has defended his and Alexander Isak’s methods of attempting to earn a transfer this summer. The Arsenal forward went on strike at Sporting CP before earning his move to the Emirates, while Isak noted he would never play for Newcastle again as he advocated for a move to Liverpool.

Gyokeres got his deal over the line before the season started as he refused to participate in pre-season, while Isak was forced to wait until transfer deadline to move to Anfield. The 25-year-old Sweden striker did not go on tour with the Magpies and trained away from the first team as the season got underway.

The pair were not alone as Brentford forward Yoane Wissa spent the summer training away from his team-mates before successfully signing for Newcastle. Such actions have put the topic of player power firmly at the forefront of many minds

And Gyokeres was asked about the subject on international duty, as he prepares for matches against Slovenia and Kosovo. The Arsenal striker has linked up with Isak, after the latter made a late arrival to camp following his loan.

«I haven’t spoken with him too much because he’s just come. I said hi to him and congratulated him for the move and not so much more,» Gyokeres said when asked about Isak.

READ MORE: Alexander Isak responds to brutal 37-word Newcastle statement with farewell messageREAD MORE: Premier League transfer window’s biggest loser clear amid Liverpool and Arsenal debate

«Yeah, I said earlier aboout my situation, it can be the same,» said on the dynamics between players and their clubs. «You don’t know what has been going on behind [the scenes]. I don’t know in his case what has gone on exactly so it’s difficult for me to speak about that.

«We all play and the clubs have the most power. It is maybe difficult for the players to choose in a lot of cases.

«When it is a player who is not wanted in that club I think it’s the total opposite, He doesn’t have any power, the club can literally do whatever they want with the player. It’s difficult but it’s how the situation is.»

Despite a difficult end to his time at Newcastle, Isak sent a touching message to thee club. Posting on Instagram, Isak said: «I want to express my gratitude to my teammates, the staff, and above all, the city of Newcastle and all the amazing supporters for the three unforgettable years we shared together.

«Together, we have written history and brought the club to the place where it truly belongs. It has been an honour to be part of the journey from reaching the Champions League to winning the first trophy in over 70 years. Forever grateful. Thank you, Newcastle.»

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