Alisson Becker ruled out for Liverpool as Alexander Isak eyes return | OneFootball

Liverpool have been handed a timely boost ahead of a crucial stretch of the season with the return of Alexander Isak to training, although goalkeeper Alisson Becker is expected to spend an extended period on the sidelines through injury.

Liverpool manager Arne Slot confirmed that Isak has returned to training after more than three months out with a broken leg.

The striker completed his first session with the squad earlier this week after exactly 101 days of recovery.

Slot said the forward is unlikely to start immediately as Liverpool carefully manage his return to full match fitness.

“Alex trained with us yesterday for the first time after exactly 101 days out,” Slot said. “It will definitely be too fast to expect him in the starting lineup.”

Liverpool face Manchester City in the FA Cup quarter-finals this weekend, but Slot suggested the club may limit Isak’s involvement as he rebuilds his fitness.

The manager acknowledged that using the striker could be complicated given the possibility of extra time in a knockout match.

“We will make sure we do the right thing in terms of building him up,” Slot added. “It is very good to have him back on the training ground and it will be even better to have him available for games.”

Isak’s return comes at a critical moment for Liverpool, who remain involved in several competitions during the final months of the season.

The club are also preparing for a Champions League quarter-final clash with Paris Saint-Germain next week.

Liverpool hope the Swedish international can provide fresh attacking options after a difficult period in which the squad has been stretched by injuries.

Isak joined Liverpool in a major transfer from Newcastle United earlier in the season and was gradually finding form before suffering the injury.

Slot suggested the long rehabilitation process has strengthened the player physically even if match sharpness will take time to rebuild.

“Our rehab staff did a great job,” Slot said. “I see a player that is much stronger and physically in a much better place.”

While Liverpool welcome Isak’s return, the news is less positive regarding goalkeeper Alisson.

The Brazilian international has suffered another hamstring injury that will keep him out for several weeks.

Slot confirmed the goalkeeper will miss the upcoming Champions League tie with Paris Saint-Germain.

“Ali will be out for a bit longer,” the Liverpool manager said. “Towards the end of the season we expect him to be fit again.”

Liverpool also received positive updates on other players, with Mohamed Salah expected to be available after recovering from a groin problem.

Defender Jeremie Frimpong is also fit following scans that showed no serious injury.

The coming weeks could prove decisive for Liverpool as they attempt to secure silverware and finish the season strongly across multiple competitions.