As Alexander Isak pushes hard to leave Newcastle, here’s a reminder of those who have taken a similar path
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ollowing Alexander Isak’s decision to post an incendiary message on Instagram as part of his increasingly bitter attempt to force an exit from Newcastle, we look at how some others Premier League players have tried to inflict bitter breakups on their employers. Some were successful, some were not.
Van Hooijdonk led Nottingham Forest to Premier League promotion in 1997-98 by scoring 29 goals in 42 league games. Yet where there should have subsequently been optimism, things soured as the Netherlands striker became increasingly upset with the club’s inability to strengthen in the market, while also selling key players in Kevin Campbell and Colin Cooper. He returned to the Netherlands in August after a transfer request was turned down, going on strike to display his irritation. Van Hooijdonk stayed fit by training with his former club NAC Breda, eventually returning to the City Ground in November to end the standoff. Forest finished bottom, were relegated and did not return to the Premier League for 23 years.
Chelsea released a statement claiming Gallas had threatened to score own goals if was selected for the 2006-07 season opener against Manchester City and refused to play in an FA Cup semi-final against Liverpool as part of his attempts to leave the club, which he ultimately did on deadline day in September 2006, sealing a move to Arsenal. The Frenchman denied Chelsea’s accusations, saying: “If people want to hide behind false accusations in order to give a reason for why I left so they can calm down the club’s supporters then they can.” Whatever the case, the defender got his way, with his switch to the Emirates allowing Ashley Cole to travel in the opposite direction.
