Owen warns Liverpool’s £125 million Isak is running out of excuses

Former England striker Michael Owen criticised Liverpool’s £125 million signing Alexander Isak after the Premier League record signing failed to influence the Reds’ 1‑1 draw with Newcastle at St James’ Park, noting the Swede’s limited impact despite a full pre‑season this season (Picture: Getty).

The Reds shattered the British transfer record last summer to bring the Sweden international to Anfield, but injuries limited Isak to just nine Premier League starts, and he was eclipsed by fellow summer signing Hugo Ekitike, who arrived from Eintracht Frankfurt.

Second‑half drama

Newcastle’s hostile St James’ Park proved a difficult arena, with Isak’s every touch met by jeers. Despite the pressure, Liverpool managed to salvage a point when Dominik Szoboszlai converted a 97th‑minute penalty, leaving the match level.

Owen, speaking to talkSPORT, said, “I had plenty of injuries in my career so I know how hard it is to get back and you do need a bit of time,” before adding, “We’re running out of excuses!” He warned that the club must see a return on the £125 million outlay.

He continued, “We’ve given him time, everyone has given him time and understood that… now we’re starting to run out of excuses. We need to see the real Isak and we know how good he is.” The former striker also noted Isak’s performance for Newcastle as “absolute class” compared with his Liverpool display.

Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola defended the striker, saying the atmosphere at St James’ Park was not a surprise and that Isak has tried to create chances, offering good positions on the ball. “He has continued pushing, fighting,” Iraola said, adding that the late goal gave the team a better taste of what was possible.

With Salah absent and Ekitike injured, Liverpool’s attacking options are thin, a point highlighted by Owen: “Liverpool absolutely need him, they’ve lost Salah, Ekitike is out, there’s not that many options in attacking areas.” The club hopes the striker can turn the tide before the season ends. Get ready for the next challenge, OK?