Liverpool handed major Alexander Isak fitness update | OneFootball

Isak handed fitness boost by Graham Potter ahead of Sweden duty

Liverpool’s record signing Alexander Isak has been declared fully fit by Sweden manager Graham Potter, easing concerns after the striker’s recent absence from club action.

Isak cleared to return for Sweden

Following his omission from Liverpool’s 3–0 defeat to Manchester City, speculation began circulating about Isak’s fitness. However, Potter confirmed at a press conference that the 26-year-old forward is in excellent condition and ready to feature in Sweden’s upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Switzerland and Slovenia.

“Alexander is here. I spoke to him briefly. He is doing well, has no problems,” said Potter, speaking to Fotbollskanalen. “He’s fit and available for selection.”

The news will come as a major relief to both Sweden and Liverpool fans, who have been anxious about Isak’s recurring groin issues in recent months. After arriving from Newcastle in a British-record £125 million deal, his start at Anfield has been mixed, largely due to niggling injuries that have interrupted his rhythm.

Photo: IMAGO

Liverpool relieved after attacking struggles

Isak’s absence was felt keenly as Liverpool’s attack struggled for fluency at the Etihad. Despite being named on the bench, he did not feature in the loss — a decision Arne Slot later explained was precautionary, citing the striker’s need for more training before returning to competitive action.

The Reds’ frontline has been reshuffled several times already this season, with Hugo Ekitike stepping up in Isak’s place and showing glimpses of promise. Ekitike recently told The Telegraph that he believes he and Isak can “definitely play together” under Slot’s system — an idea the manager has only tested once so far this campaign, during the convincing win over Eintracht Frankfurt.

While Isak continues to adapt to his new surroundings, some critics have questioned his body language and consistency. Former Liverpool midfielder Don Hutchison joined a few Newcastle supporters in suggesting that Isak’s fitness issues were partly self-inflicted — comments that seemed harsh given Slot’s own admission that the player had only just completed full training prior to the City match.

Potter’s confidence in his striker

For Potter, Isak remains a key figure in Sweden’s hopes of reaching the next World Cup. His technical ability, intelligent movement and clinical finishing make him one of the most important forwards in European football. The Swedish coach’s calm and measured approach to his player’s recovery suggests confidence that the worst of Isak’s injury troubles are behind him.

“Alexander’s attitude has been excellent,” Potter added. “He’s eager to contribute and looks ready. These matches will be a good opportunity for him to find rhythm again.”

Path back to form at club and country

Sweden face Switzerland on Friday before welcoming Slovenia next week, and Isak is expected to feature prominently in both fixtures. For Liverpool, the hope is that these international outings will help sharpen the striker’s match fitness ahead of the Premier League’s return.

If Isak can rediscover his best form, he could yet become the focal point Arne Slot envisioned when he sanctioned the record-breaking transfer. The potential partnership with Ekitike remains an exciting prospect — one that could add much-needed versatility and firepower to Liverpool’s attack heading into a decisive stretch of the season.

As Potter puts faith in Isak to lead Sweden’s line, Liverpool supporters will be watching closely, eager for signs that their marquee signing is finally ready to deliver on his enormous promise.