Dan Burn on Alexander Isak Transfer, England World Cup Qualifiers, and More
Dan Burn's thoughts on Alexander Isak's transfer to Liverpool and his own ambitions with England.
“I have been in football long enough to understand that for a player, the careers are short and they have got things they want to achieve...”
Newcastle United and England defender Dan Burn has wished Alexander Isak “all the best” following the striker's controversial transfer to Liverpool. Burn expressed his goodwill towards Isak, stating he had “nothing but good wishes” for his former teammate. This comes after reports emerged that Isak was close to joining Liverpool, a move that would undoubtedly strengthen the Reds' squad.
Meanwhile, Burn is focused on this weekend's World Cup qualifier against Andorra, where England will aim to continue their unbeaten streak in World Cup qualifiers, which dates back to 2009. England manager Thomas Tuchel will be looking to secure another three points on Saturday night at Villa Park in Birmingham, where Andorra will provide a test for the Three Lions. England's last loss in a World Cup qualifier was against Ukraine in 2009, and they're determined to keep this record intact.
Dan Burn has expressed his well-wishes for Alexander Isak following the striker's £125 million transfer from Newcastle to Liverpool. “I am glad it is done. We wanted the transfer window closed to have a bit of clarity on it,” Burn said, understanding the prolonged transfer saga's impact on the team.
Burn acknowledged Isak's ambition, stating, “I have been in football long enough to understand that for a player, the careers are short and they have got things they want to achieve.” He emphasized that there's “no animosity” between them, adding that Isak is a mate, and it's tough when a teammate wants to leave.
“I wish Alex all the best, apart from when we play Liverpool, obviously,” Burn joked, showing his competitive side. He sympathized with Newcastle fans' frustration, saying, “As a Newcastle fan, we are very protective of our club and city, and we want players to be there who want to play for Newcastle.” Burn prioritizes understanding over bitterness, wishing Isak success in his future endeavors.
“Alex is a mate and it is a tough situation because you want him to be around and helping the team, but also understand for him what he needs to do personally. I have nothing but good wishes for Alex.”
Dan Burn admits that he can see why Newcastle fans were upset with the Alexander Isak situation, but also that he wishes the Swedish striker 'all the best' 🎙️🥲 pic.twitter.com/sfPA6JLTY6
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) September 5, 2025
“No animosity. As a Newcastle fan, we are very protective of our club and city and we want players to be there who want to play for Newcastle and you don't want them to naively think that there is anyone else to go apart from Newcastle. So I understand why our fans are frustrated.
“I wish Alex all the best apart from when we play Liverpool, obviously.”
Facing huge teams such as Brazil
He was next asked about playing against the likes of Brazil next summer, something World Cup preparation does not include, as England face European sides.
“That's the thing about World Cup qualifiers, sometimes you don't always play these big teams, and it is about having that same mentality no matter what you're doing.
“Bruno (Guimares) is a top player, and Brazil are full of top players themselves. It is a joy to watch when you're behind that. If I have the ball, he is always there wanting it, and I can give it to him. I heard he had a great game last night.”
Getting Better with Age
Dan Burn believes that age is just a number, and he's improving with time. “The older I get, the better I become,” Burn said, highlighting his relentless training and dedication to the sport. This mindset is increasingly common among modern players who prioritize fitness and skill development.
Burn's experience and maturity have been invaluable to his team, and he continues to be a key player for both Newcastle United and the England national team. His ability to adapt and improve has allowed him to maintain a high level of performance, even as he gets older.
“I have been playing well for a long time now, and that has built a lot of confidence - and being successful last season by winning the League Cup and qualifying for the Champions League - so I feel in a really good place. I also feel the older I am getting, I am still getting better.
“It's an exciting season now that I am 33 and getting a chance to play Champions League again, and the possibility of making the World Cup squad motivates me to keep pushing myself.”
Competition for England Spot
Dan Burn has identified Marc Guehi as his main competition for a spot in Thomas Tuchel's England lineup. According to Burn, the Crystal Palace defender is a top player who pushes him to perform better. “The way the gaffer has divided up, yes,” Burn said, acknowledging the intense competition between them.
Tuchel's tactical approach involves dividing his center-backs into 'left-sided and right-sided' pairings, with Burn competing against Guehi for the left center-back position. This competition has raised the bar for both players, driving them to excel in training and matches.
Key Competitors for England Center-Back Spots:
Left Center-Back:
- Dan Burn: Current medal winner and starting left center-back
- Marc Guehi: Consistent performer for England, known for winning back possession and impressive Premier League stats
Right Center-Back:
- Ezri Konsa: Competing with Jarrel Quansah for the right center-back spot
Guehi's recent form and leadership have earned him respect from Tuchel, who praised Guehi's attitude after his failed transfer to Liverpool. Despite missing out on the move, Guehi has maintained his professionalism and continues to be a strong contender for England's starting lineup.
Dan Burn commended Marc Guehi saying: “Obviously, Marc is a top player and very close to moving to Liverpool as well. I feel like it keeps us pushing, and I feel like that's what the gaffer wants in possession and the patterns he wants us to get further up the pitch, and it suits that.
“Yeah, right at this moment, I'd probably agree that he is the direct competition.”
Deserving of England Spot
Dan Burn believes he deserves a place in the England squad, citing his impressive performances for Newcastle United. “I should be here,” Burn said confidently, reflecting on his consistent form and contributions to his team.
Burn's experience and ability to adapt to different roles have made him a valuable asset to Thomas Tuchel's plans. With his defensive skills and tactical awareness, Burn is well-equipped to compete with other top center-backs for a spot in the England lineup.
“I think the first camp it was amazing to be there. But I feel the more camps I go on now, I feel more confident in your ability to play at this level.
“It is sort of the unknown when you come here, until you play a game, you don't know if you can do it. But now that I have done it, I feel like I should be here and deserve a place.”
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