Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe has admitted his relationship with Alexander Isak became "difficult" after he went on strike in an attempt to force through his move to Liverpool .

The 25-year-old Sweden international missed the club's preseason tour to Singapore and South Korea and was left training by himself on the squad's return before eventually getting his wish with a deadline day move to Anfield which netted the Magpies £130 million ($176m).

Asked about his relationship with the man he signed from Real Sociedad for £63m during the summer of 2022, head coach Howe said: "Alex and I always enjoyed a great relationship. I loved working with him and I hope he loved working with us.

"It was mutually beneficial. We helped him become the player that he in part is today, and

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