Emil Krafth rubbished claims that Alexander Isak's efforts to secure his move to Liverpool caused division in the Newcastle dressing room - insisting "that is certainly not true".
The Swedemade it clear he wanted to leave St James' Park and continued to push for the exit door once the Premier League season started. Isak was left out for the first three games of the season as his future dominated the club's press conferences.
Whilst Newcastle did originally dig their heels in, maintaining he wouldn't be sold, but they later changed their stance and landed a British-record fee on deadline day to bring an end to the saga. A number of Newcastle players continued to be quizzed on the situation.
Isak was being made to train on his own away from the first-team but once his exit was finalised a number of players came forward and insisted that the Swede's desire to move on did not disrupt them internally.
Krafth told Sportbladet: "There were many who wanted to see Alex stay, but you understand how football works. I wish him all the best in the future. For me, Alex is not just a footballer, but a close friend too.
READ MORE: Alexander Isak slammed by club legend for forcing Liverpool move - 'Not a good look'
READ MORE: Alexander Isak's teammate speaks out on dressing room reaction to Liverpool star – 'Not true'
"The media wrote that the locker room would be divided. That is certainly not true. Football players understand football players, and we can only wish him the best of luck. As Anthony [Elanga] said, it has been very chill. No one has said or done anything. It is just taken out of thin air. You understand his and the club's situation. Of course, they would have wanted to keep him, he is an incredibly good football player."
That sentiment has been echoed by several other players. Elanga, who like Krafth is team-mates with Isak on the international scene, maintained that the situation "has been chill." The new arrival also maintained that, whilst Isak moved on, Newcastle too have added quality.

Dan Burn, who along with Isak scored in the Carabao Cup final win over Liverpool last season, also maintained he had no ill-feeling towards the striker, all whilst understanding that people are protective of their club with Isak facing backlash from the Toon faithful.
He said: "No animosity towards him, you know what Newcastle fans are like, we are very protective of your club and your city and want players who want to play for Newcastle."
In the final week of the transfer window Newcastle were able to land Nick Woltemade and Yoane Wissa to bolster their forward line with Isak moving on for more than double what he cost three years ago.
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