Rafa Benitez has revealed what people at Newcastle United have 'said' about Alexander Isak following his blockbuster transfer to Liverpool.
Isak signed for Liverpool from Newcastle for a British-record £125 million.
It was a drawn out and protracted saga, with the Reds eventually securing the star forward's services on deadline day.
The Swede was left out of Arne Slot's squad for their Premier League fixture against Burnley but played from the start against Atletico Madrid on Wednesday.
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Liverpool fans on social media delivered an instant verdict on Isak following his debut.
Before kick-off, ex-Liverpool and Newcastle boss Benitez joined the TNT Sports panel and discussed his old side's signing of the 25-year-old.
Speaking to host Laura Woods and pundits Michael Owen and Steve McManaman, the 65-year-old let them in on a 'secret'.
Having spoken to people at Newcastle, Benitez revealed that they are 'missing' Isak.
"I’ll tell you a secret, speaking to people at Newcastle... They are missing him [Isak]," he told the TNT Sports panel.
His departure at Newcastle was a huge blow to Eddie Howe, the club and fans given his record at St. James' Park.
He enjoyed three seasons with the Magpies and scored an impressive 62 goals in 109 games across all competitions.
Isak helped them to Carabao Cup glory during his spell.
Ahead of their Champions League opener, Slot explained why he left Isak out of his squad against Burnley on Sunday.
"This was the plan all along. This is why he was not involved in the Burnley game, so he could have some proper sessions at the time he was with us," he said.
"That's what you need in pre-season as well. You don't start by playing friendlies, you start with a proper training week and at the end of that training week you can play 45, maybe 60 minutes, and that's what we're going to see with him today."
Isak could make his first league appearance for Liverpool when they resume their campaign on Saturday against cross-city rivals Everton.
Topics: Alexander Isak, Rafa Benitez, Liverpool, Newcastle United, Football
Nasir Jabbar