Wissa shines as Isak struggles - Newcastle v Liverpool player ratings

What the report says

BBC Sport Football reported player ratings from Newcastle United’s 2-2 Premier League draw with Liverpool at St James’ Park, a match decided by Dominik Szoboszlai’s 99th-minute penalty equaliser. The piece noted that Newcastle’s new manager Matthias Jaissle was denied a win in his first league match in charge, while the ratings highlighted several stand-out performances on both sides.

For Newcastle, the report singled out Yoane Wissa for his influence in the number 10 role, praising his sharpness and the carry that helped set up Joe Willock’s goal. Anthony Elanga also earned a strong mark for his composed finish for Newcastle’s opener, while debutants Lukas Horníček and Amar Dedić were described positively. Willock’s impact off the bench was another notable point, as he scored Newcastle’s second goal after coming on.

Liverpool’s ratings were more mixed. Cody Gakpo was one of the visitors’ best performers, scoring a well-taken equaliser and remaining a major attacking threat. By contrast, Alexander Isak’s return to St James’ Park after his move to Liverpool drew attention for the noise around him, but the report said he struggled to influence the game and missed a good chance. The article also pointed to an uneven outing for Florian Wirtz and Milos Kerkez, while Szoboszlai’s late penalty salvaged a point.

The BBC’s article is useful context for how both teams are being assessed early in the season, especially with Newcastle under a new manager and Liverpool continuing to adapt after high-profile squad changes.