Alexander Isak's return to St James' Park proved to be a challenging affair. The former Newcastle striker faced boos from the home crowd, and the Swedish international failed to make a significant impression on the pitch. Body language expert Darren Stanton analysed Isak's demeanour and detected signs of stress and annoyance.
Having left Newcastle last summer for a record £125 million move to Liverpool, Isak made his first appearance back at his former stomping ground on Sunday, only to encounter a negative response from the stands.
Stanton observed the player's behaviour from the moment he arrived at the stadium:
Isak pursed his lips tightly when he first appeared at St James' Park, clearly not smiling upon his return to his old home ground. He understands fully how he's being received and what chants are directed at him.
I also noted his slightly furrowed brows and downcast gaze just before entering the stadium. To me, this indicates his desire to escape the scrutiny of Newcastle fans as quickly as possible.
He attempts to project an image of indifference, but it’s clear that he is anything but. Isak seemed very withdrawn, unwilling to let anyone read his emotions. He appeared stone-faced, displaying none of the anger, joy, or disgust that one might expect.
Overall, I'd say that Isak is acutely aware of the fans' sentiments towards him, which obviously doesn’t sit well with him. I noted eight or nine consistent signs in his behaviour that suggest his return to Newcastle was far from pleasant.
Liverpool's manager, Andoni Iraola, commented after the match that Isak “tried to do everything possible” under the circumstances and that the hostile atmosphere at St James’ Park was not a surprise for the striker.
