TBR Football understands Alexander Isak stands a minimal chance of starting for Liverpool against Burnley.
Isak joined the Reds on deadline day, completing his British transfer record £125 million move from Newcastle United.
The 25-year-old travelled with the Sweden national side for the World Cup qualifiers over the international break but was an unused substitute in the 2-2 draw against Slovenia on Friday.
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Isak had no pre-season at Newcastle, as the drama unfolded at St James’ Park ahead of his move to Liverpool – his 18-minute cameo against Kosovo was the first time he had stepped onto a pitch since May.
Slovenia v Sweden - FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifier
Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images
Sources: Alexander Isak could start his Liverpool debut
TBR Football chief correspondent Graeme Bailey has exclusively revealed that sources within Anfield have confirmed the Reds believe it is unlikely but not impossible that Isak will start at Turf Moor on Sunday.
The source states, “I think it is minimal, but let’s see how the fitness levels are coming back from international duty – but I don’t think it is impossible.”
Freddie Ljungberg believes Liverpool limited Isak’s involvement to ensure their record signing would return to Anfield unscathed after a non-existent pre-season.
Alexander Isak is unveiled as a new Liverpool player
Photo by Nikki Dyer – LFC/Liverpool FC via Getty Images
Isak broke his silence on his Newcastle exit following the 2-0 loss against Kosovo and revealed he feels “okay” after his first match involvement in months.
The Reds maintained a perfect Premier League record heading into the international break, but with the return of Champions League football to Anfield alongside Carabao Cup commitments, the schedule will be hectic.
Liverpool will play seven matches across all competitions until the next international break, which is scheduled to begin at the start of October.
Arne Slot devises Hugo Ekitike plan ahead of Alexander Isak’s potential debut
Hugo Ekitike has hit the ground running for the Reds, having scored three goals in his opening four competitive fixtures since arriving via Eintracht Frankfurt this summer.
Arne Slot will soon face a dilemma at Anfield regarding how to fit his record signing and Ekitike into the same starting line-up.
And that is a challenge that Slot is relishing, as sources informed Bailey that the Dutchman has no concerns with the pair lining up alongside each other.
Source states: “Far from it, they love the possibilities – Ekitike can play out wide and no 10, indeed Isak has done that before too – many options.”