Isak named in Sweden World Cup qualifiers squad amid transfer stand-off

Sweden named Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak in their squad for World Cup qualifiers against Slovenia and Kosovo, despite the 25-year-old’s ongoing strike at his club to force a transfer to Liverpool.

Isak, who has not played for Newcastle this season and is training separately from the first team, has publicly criticised the club for unfulfilled promises, signalling his intent to leave St. James’ Park.

Liverpool’s pursuit of the striker intensified after their £110 million bid was rejected, with reports indicating a second offer is in the works before the transfer deadline.

According to BBC Sports on Wednesday, Sweden’s head coach, Jon Dahl Tomasson, remains confident in Isak’s abilities, including him in the national team despite his lack of recent competitive minutes at the club level.

The 25-year-old has not kicked a ball for Newcastle this season, training away from Eddie Howe’s first-team squad after accusing the club of breaking promises made to him.

“The relationship can’t continue,” Isak said earlier this month, making it clear he sees his future away from St. James’ Park.

It means Isak could return to competitive action in national colours next week, even while his Newcastle exile drags on.

Fellow striker Viktor Gyokeres, who scored his first two goals for Arsenal at the weekend, is also included in Tomasson’s squad.

The Sweden coach said: “I am very happy that Alexander Isak wants to be in the squad, he is a huge player.

“The situation he is in is not perfect, and he has not trained with the team. But he is a player who can decide matches, and he wants to be part of our squad. The World Cup is important for Alexander Isak.”

Liverpool have yet to make a fresh bid for Isak since an offer of £110m was rejected at the start of this month.

Isak has since released a statement on social media accusing Newcastle of breaking a promise to allow him to leave this summer.

The Magpies have denied making such a commitment and continue to insist Isak is not for sale.