Lee Jarvis

However the Alexander Isak saga eventually concludes, let’s hope that at some point the player has the good grace to acknowledge the debt he owes Eddie Howe for helping his development into one of the best players in the world and also apologises for causing such chaos. It’s one thing a player wanting to leave – ambition, short career, levels, finance whatever – but it’s the aggressive way that Isak tries to force his way out - midway through a six-year contract - that also causes such anger on Tyneside. In the middle of this maelstrom, Howe shows commendable calm and patience. Newcastle’s head coach is being strong, demanding standards of behaviour, yet diplomatically leaving the dressing-room door open in case Liverpool don’t make an acceptable offer (£130m+) and Isak does stay. Howe deserves huge respect for the dignified, intelligent way he’s handling a damaging distraction. He's trying to prepare his team for what should be an exciting season not knowing who will form his attack, and currently fielding a wide player in Anthony Gordon centrally. He’s dealing with a troublesome transfer window without a sporting director or chief executive. He’s going into press conferences knowing they will be dominated by questions about a striking striker. In the modern media, and social media, age, Howe has to choose every word carefully, knowing they will be scrutinised forensically and emotionally. He has to pick the right words to send the right message to Isak, to the other players, to potential signings, and to the Newcastle faithful outraged by Isak’s behaviour. Newcastle’s board are fortunate they have such an impressive figure fronting up for them and the club. Howe also deserves more respect and gratitude from Isak. Since joining in 2022, Isak’s improvement from a very good £63m 22-year-old into an elite performer worth £130m+ is obviously largely down to his own ability and inner drive but Howe deserves huge credit. He makes good players even better. His coaching, man-management and building a system to bring the best out of Isak helped turn the Swede into a player coveted by Liverpool. Let’s hope Isak respects that one day. #NUFC