A Newcastle United star reportedly had to be ‘calmed down’ after Alexander Isak released his public statement criticising the club.

The Magpies had been adamant for most of the summer that Isak would not be sold following their qualification for the Champions League.

But Liverpool were encouraged to test the waters with a £110m proposal for the Swede earlier in the window after word spread that he had informed the Newcastle board of his wish to depart.

That offer was immediately turned down, and Isak then decided to escalate the situation himself, posting a message on social media in an effort to push through a move.

“That silence has let others create their own stories, even though they know it isn’t the truth of what was said and agreed behind the scenes.

“The fact is, promises were made and the club has long been aware of where I stand. Pretending these matters are only just appearing is disingenuous.

“When promises aren’t kept and trust disappears, the relationship can’t be repaired. That is the reality for me now – and why change is the best solution for all parties, not just for myself.”

Newcastle rejected those remarks outright, insisting they did ‘not expect’ the ‘conditions to be satisfied’ that would have enabled a deal to happen this summer.

In the end, the Magpies brought in German forward Nick Woltemade along with Brentford attacker Yoane Wissa, which cleared the path for Isak to leave on deadline day in a £125m transfer, potentially rising to £130m.

His explosive statement unsettled the club hierarchy – but according to Craig Hope of the Daily Mail, it also infuriated many of his team-mates.

‘Howe and Isak had not spoken after the statement, and senior members of the squad were unhappy with his actions. We were told one player had to be restrained by a fellow countryman during a meeting on the matter, such was his passion for defending the badge.’