Eddie Howe reacts as Alexander Isak targeted by Newcastle fans with X-rated chant

Newcastle manager Eddie Howe has said he understands the anger of the club's fans after they directed a derogatory chant at Alexander Isak, who is keen to move to Liverpool. Newcastle's lack of bite in Isak's absence was evident, leading to the travelling Toon Army expressing their anger towards him with a foul-mouthed chant calling the Swedish striker an insulting word.

"I understand the emotion of the situation," stated the Toon boss, echoing sentiments he had previously shared following the Aston Villa match. "It's a very emotive period for everyone connected with Newcastle, so I've got no issue with that." Despite back-to-back goalless draws on the road leaving Newcastle with just two points, Howe is optimistic about what new £69million German striker Nick Woltemade will bring to the team.

Woltemade observed from the stands at Elland Road, prompting Howe to comment: "I felt defensively we were very good again, but with the ball, our creativity was off today. It was absolutely massive for us to sign a striker and I'm really pleased to get one with the qualities Nick possesses.

"I think he's not just a big presence - and he will be that in the box for us - but he's got unbelievable technical ability. He's got creativity as well, everything that we were probably lacking today."

Leeds are comfortably in the top 10 after securing four points at Elland Road, and manager Daniel Farke is thrilled with their positive start back in the Premier League.

"I'm pleased not just with this game, but in general with our start to the season," Farke declared. "Two home games, four points, two clean sheets and we've played against one of the best sides in Europe today.

"There wasn't much between the sides and we weren't far away from getting all three points, but I don't want to be too greedy. This result shows the kind of performance we can deliver. We hardly gave a chance away, while we also looked dangerous, which makes me pretty happy."