Alexander Isak has declared himself fit to face Liverpool on Wednesday after overcoming a hip issue and there’s also some good news to share on Sven Botman and a Reds centre-back ruled out for Arne Slot’s side.
Isak was forced off in the first half of Saturday’s 1-1 draw at Crystal Palace after failing to run off a whack to the hip. There were doubts around his availability given the quick turnaround, but he’s all but confirmed he’ll be OK for Wednesday in an interview on Monday.
Speaking to beIN Sports’ [Andy Kerr](https://x.com/AndyKerrtv/status/1863634904086421833) about his knock and availability, he said: “I am fine. It was really painful, a bad knock, but I’ve responded well.”
Asked if he will be fit face to Liverpool, Isak added: “That’s the plan.” So, it sounds like the Swede is fine and fit to start on Wednesday against a Reds defence that will be missing one of their star centre-back in Ibrahim Konate.
Konate is set to miss the remainder of 2024, meaning Joe Gomez – who reportedly came close to joining Newcastle over the summer – looks set to partner Virgil van Dijk tomorrow night.
As for Sven Botman, the big Dutchman returned to full first-team training sessions last week, saying ‘go time soon’ in a message to his followers on Instagram.
The centre-back has been a huge miss. While he won’t be rushed back or feature in tomorrow’s squad for the tough test of Liverpool, it’s hoped the former Lille star could make his long-awaited return from an ACL injury later this month.