Liverpool striker fitness latest after international return | OneFootball

Isak’s Ongoing Injury Battle Raises Concerns for Liverpool

Alexander Isak’s strained relationship with form and fitness has become one of the defining stories of Liverpool’s season, and his brief return for Sweden in their 4-1 defeat to Switzerland offered more questions than comfort. The striker, a £125 million investment and a central figure in Arne Slot’s attack when fully fit, stepped back onto the pitch after another difficult spell on the sidelines, yet his impact was limited as his injury story continued to dominate the narrative.

Sweden Appearance Offers Only Fleeting Encouragement

Isak’s season has never properly settled. His decision to step away from Newcastle before joining Liverpool left him without a full pre-season, and the effects have lingered. A groin problem in late October forced him to sit out almost a month, although Sweden boss Graham Potter selected him for the November window, making clear that he would be handled with caution, stating the striker was “not ready to play two matches for 90 minutes”.

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Introduced in the 62nd minute at Stade de Genève with Sweden trailing 2-1, Isak “looked eager to play” according to reports, but the sharpness that defines his game remained elusive. Thirteen touches, no shots and little opportunity to influence Sweden’s dismal performance underlined the slow road back.

Player Reaction Suggests Growing Confidence

Speaking to Sportbladet, Isak attempted to inject some optimism into an increasingly weary injury narrative. His own assessment was simple. “It felt okay,” he said. “I feel like the reaction was good after the match in my body.”

He continued with the hope of building momentum. “Hopefully I can play properly in the next match (against Slovenia on Tuesday). It’s always frustrating when you’re injured. Regardless of whether it’s one match or more. It’s always worst for the player himself.”

He added, “It hasn’t been optimal. But when I’m on the field, I don’t give myself any excuses. I always want to play my game and perform.” His reflections carried the tone of a player desperate to contribute again. “But yes, it’s hard to be away and not be able to help and contribute. Now I’m back and I’m positive. There’s not much that’s easy in football. But with experience you learn to deal with things.”“That’s how it is with injuries and all that. You learn to deal with it and get back on track the right way.”

Liverpool Waiting for Full Return

Liverpool’s title defence and attacking fluency depend heavily on Isak rediscovering rhythm. For now, the club watches Sweden’s careful management and hopes this latest return marks the start of a more consistent run for a forward whose quality is unquestioned, but whose availability remains uncertain.