The main talking point from Liverpool’s Premier League opening match away at Newcastle United on Sunday came courtesy of Alexander Isak.
The forward, making his first visit back to St James’ Park since his contentious £125million transfer to Anfield last September, received a hostile reception from the home crowd as he made his way from the team coach into the stadium.
He experienced similar throughout the warm-up session and couldn’t help but grin as he was jeered while heading back down the tunnel at half-time.
It seemed Liverpool were almost taunting the home fans by selecting Isak for the starting lineup, with the opening period in the stands dominated by abusive songs about a player whose every touch drew loud whistles.
There were, however, ovations when match official Stuart Attwell declined to award a free-kick for what looked like a challenge on Isak, leaving the striker furious on the ground.
That was one of the few moments Isak received the ball during a first half where he grew increasingly cut off as Liverpool failed to find their attacking rhythm.
When the Sweden international finally received a chance after the interval, provided by Cody Gakpo, his wayward effort prompted a predictable reaction from the home supporters.
While unlocking Isak’s full potential will be crucial for new Reds manager Andoni Iraola this campaign, this encounter served as a stark reminder of how predecessor Arne Slot, despite the striker missing large portions of last season through injury, found it difficult to achieve this.
Florian Wirtz, anticipated to be the primary creative outlet, is another player expected to produce more this term. Concerning, therefore, that while his application couldn’t be questioned here, the German international failed to deliver before being substituted midway through the second period.
One benefit for Isak was that he managed to complete the entire match for the first time since joining Liverpool, meaning he remained on the pitch when Dominik Szoboszlai struck the late leveller from twelve yards.
This prompted further jeers from those still present as Isak eventually departed the field after the final whistle.
This was not the ideal beginning either the player or Liverpool had hoped for this campaign. However, the real task is merely commencing for the Reds to finally unleash the capabilities of their most expensive acquisition.