'He is smarter than me' - Alexander Isak drafted into Sweden's squad for 2026 World Cup qualifiers despite Newcastle exile as Jon Dahl Tomasson gives verdict on Liverpool transfer saga

Isak was absent from Newcastle’s pre-season schedule and played no part in the club’s opening Premier League fixtures, a goalless draw against Aston Villa and a thrilling 3-2 home defeat to Liverpool. The Swedish striker has been spotted training alone at Newcastle's Darsley Park base, and has reportedly vowed not to play for the club again in order to force through a transfer to Anfield.

Weighing in on the transfer saga, Sweden boss Tomasson told reporters on Wednesday: "It is very difficult to have a clear opinion about the situation. We do not know what has happened in the club. We must be very careful about drawing hasty conclusions when we do not have the whole picture. He is smart enough, he is smarter than me I think."

Tomasson went on to admit that Isak is not ready to play 90 minutes, but he feels that the former Real Sociedad striker can still make a decisive impact for his country.

"Alex is a very professional player, a strong character, and he has worked hard. He is a game changer," Tomasson added. "I have spoken to him several times; mentally, he is strong. What we have said stays between us, of course. Can he play 90 minutes? Of course not. Not at all."

Isak will not be the only Premier League representative in Tomasson’s squad. Newcastle team-mates Emil Krafth and Anthony Elanga have also been called up. Arsenal’s big summer addition, Viktor Gyokeres, is also included, giving Sweden an intimidating strike force.

Isak has made it clear that he desires to leave, despite Newcastle owners visiting him personally in an attempt to mend relations and convince him to stay. Liverpool, who saw a staggering £110m ($148m) bid rejected earlier this month, remain in the wings, and are currently preparing a mega £130m ($175m) bid to convince the Magpies to part ways with their prized asset.

For Tomasson, the decision to include Isak carries both promise and peril. On one hand, the forward’s talent can transform a game instantly, but his lack of match sharpness is a cause of concern. Sweden will play against Slovenia on September 5 and Kosovo on September 8 as they seek to open their 2026 World Cup qualification campaign with maximum points.