Liverpool head coach Arne Slot has backed Alexander Isak to return to his devastating best for the club ahead of next season.
The Sweden international joined the Reds in a British-record £125 million deal from Newcastle United last summer, but his debut campaign at Merseyside has been very underwhelming, failing to live up to his hefty price tag.
Isak initially struggled with fitness, before suffering a broken leg in December which kept him out of action until earlier this month.
He has managed only three goals across all competitions and not looked convincing since returning from the injury layoff.
However, Slot remains confident that Liverpool will get the best version of the 26-year-old next season.
“A very good pre-season with us would have been a very good lead up to the season. If he has a good World Cup where he plays a lot of games, that would be very helpful. I am happy that he is back. I think we are seeing progress in the games that he is playing”, Slot said.
Isak scored 62 goals in 109 appearances for Newcastle United, including 27 across all competitions last season and Liverpool will be hoping for the striker to rediscover his best as they look to mount a serious challenge next season.
Liverpool return to Premier League action on Saturday when they welcome Crystal Palace to Anfield and they will also be forced to be without goalkeeper Giorgi Mamarshdavili and French forward Hugo Ekitike, who is out for long-term after rupturing his Achilles tendon.
However, they will be braced for a tough challenge, as they have been beaten three times already by the Eagles this season, including in the season-opening FA Community Shield when Palace claimed victory on penalty shootout.
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.
