Liverpool manager Arne Slot did not disclose if Alexander Isak would be in the starting lineup in their UCL opener against Atletico Madrid on Wednesday night.
The Sweden striker joined the Premier League champions in a British-record £125 million deal on transfer deadline day from Newcastle United, but was not included in the Reds squad for last weekend’s EPL win over Burnley.
Isak, missed preseason action and was ordered to train away from Newcastle’s squad, after his refusal to play for the club.
Speaking ahead of the clash, Slot refused to reveal if the 25-year-old would feature from the start, but stated that he was ready to play a part in the match.
“There is definitely a chance because he is in the squad. Then there’s a chance to play, but I can say it’s 100 per cent sure that he will not play 90 minutes. But he’s part of the squad”, Slot revealed.
“It’s already a Champions League game to look forward to, but if people look forward to his playing time, that could mean that could happen as well. The only thing that is sure is that he will not play 90 and all the rest you will see.”
The Reds face Atletico Madrid in the opening game of their UCL campaign at Anfield, as they hope to better last season’s round of 16 exit.
Despite finishing top of the 36-team standings, Liverpool suffered early elimination at the hands of eventual champions PSG, crashing out on penalties.
“Getting fit after missing out on four months of proper team sessions”, the Liverpool manager continued.
“He doesn’t have to prove to anyone that he’s good enough to play in the Premier League because that’s what he’s proven already at Newcastle.
The main challenge he has is to become so fit that he is first of all ready to do what he did last season”, he added.
Isak’s test of living up to his hefty price tag may start on Wednesday against the Spanish side, provided he gets a run in the match.
Olakitan is a young writer with a strong passion for sports, having gained experience with IndyPress and Nimelssa Press. His enthusiasm for sports inspired him to cover events both within his school and beyond. With a deep understanding of the game and a refined skillset, he brings sports coverage to a broad, global audience in a way that’s engaging and accessible.
