Liverpool coach previously indirectly described Newcastle United as a "small club". At today's Premier League pre-match press conference, Newcastle coach Eddie Howe was asked about his views on this. He said he did not want to get involved in the controversy.

After Liverpool's 5-1 victory over Eintracht Frankfurt, Slott said of Isaac's training situation: "I don't think every player's pre-season preparation has to be exactly the same. But it also depends on what Isaac does when he is not training with the team, and what the impact of joining a new club as a blockbuster signing will be.

"So you can't compare a player who missed pre-season preparations at a smaller club, perhaps, with joining Liverpool. "

In response to this, Eddie Howe responded today: "Our system here is very complete. While not perfect, we still have areas to improve and grow. But the improvements the owners have made to the facilities since I took over have been really, really good... We have a lot of elite athletes here and we're managing them pretty well so far.

Reporter: Newcastle are currently ranked higher than Liverpool in the Champions League. They defeated them in the League Cup last season. Will they speak out to defend the club?

Eddie Howe: "I like the way you phrased it...encouraging me to swing back! But I don't think I have to, you've done it for me and laid out the facts! You obviously know what my answer will be.

"I don't think it's wise for me to get involved in those discussions. Isaac is no longer a member of the football club so I will not comment on that. "