Below is a summary of the full article. Click here for the full version or go back to LFC Live.net
Newcastle United's Alexander Isak breaks past Liverpool's Virgil van Dijk during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Liverpool at St.
James's Park in Newcastle, United Kingdom, on December 4, 2024.
(Photo by MI News/NurPhoto via Getty Images)(Image: MI News/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak says he is relishing going up against Virgil van Dijk in Sunday's Carabao Cup final, insisting he has no fear of the Liverpool captain.
And the Magpies forward, who has become one of the hottest properties in the Premier League this term, has refused to commit his future to the St James' Park club, saying he will look to resolve his situation at the end of the campaign.
Article continues below
Isak will lead the line for Eddie Howe's side in the Wembley showpiece as they aim to secure a first domestic trophy for 70 years against the holders of the competition.
READ MORE:Virgil van Dijk gives most significant Liverpool contract update yet as summer possibility explainedREAD MORE:Mohamed Salah tears after Champions League exit leaves Liverpool facing unthinkable
And while the Sweden international has a huge amount of respect for Reds skipper Van Dijk, he says he won't be in awe of the Netherlands captain on the day.
"I wouldn't say I fear anyone, that's a strong word." Isak said of Van Dijk.
It's Newcastle against Liverpool.
It comes down to what we do as a team and I will obviously try to use my qualities to make us better."
Isak's 19 Premier League goals this season are only bettered by Mohamed Salah (27) and Manchester City's Erling Haaland (20) and the Newcastle star's form has seen him speculatively linked with Arsenal and more recently Liverpool as a result.
The Reds may be in the market for a new centre-forward depending on the future of Darwin Nunez, who has suitors from the Saudi Pro League, among others, and Isak stopped short of committing himself to the Newcastle cause beyond the end of the campaign, claiming talks will take place over his next decision later this year.
Isak revealed: "I think we should really look at it one season at a time and this season we can achieve winning a trophy which would be amazing for everyone.
"About my future, it's nothing really I think about.
I've said many times during a season - just focus on the job - and now is probably the worst time to think about anything else, so all of our focus is just on Sunday and doing good and hopefully bringing the trophy back to Newcastle.
"I've said I'm not really thinking about the summer, but yes, that'll probably be a talking point once the season is finished.
For more news relating to Arsenal, visit our sister site AFC Latest Live.