Alexander Isak has been called up to Sweden’s squad for their November internationals despite the striker yet to make his return from a groin injury.
Isak has been sidelined for the last four matches after suffering a groin injury during the Champions League trip to Frankfurt last month.
He had yet to return to team training on the eve of Real Madrid‘s visit, with Arne Slot explaining that his involvement against Man City is not yet guaranteed.
“With Alex, we have to wait and see. Definitely not starting on Sunday, but maybe he can be involved in the squad,” Slot said.
“But he is still not training with the team, so we have to wait and see.”
That has not stopped new Sweden manager Graham Potter from naming the striker in his 26-man squad ahead of their World Cup qualifiers against Switzerland (Nov 15) and Slovenia (Nov 18).
SEVILLE, SPAIN - JUNE 14: Viktor Claesson of Sweden replaces team mates Alexander Isak during the UEFA Euro 2020 Championship Group E match between Spain and Sweden at the La Cartuja Stadium on June 14, 2021 in Seville, Spain. (Photo by Fran Santiago - UEFA)
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The Swedish FA state that Isak is “selectable,” with Potter adding that “as things stand right now,” he is available.
The former Brighton and Chelsea manager added, “Alex can hopefully play a bit this weekend and will be in Spain (for training camp) on Monday.”
The Swedish FA will have been in close contact with Liverpool regarding Isak’s fitness, with the striker seemingly granted time to prove his fitness before the break starts next week.
Isak played the full 180 minutes for his country during the October break and then saw his body breakdown on his second start for Liverpool following his return to club action.
The 26-year-old has struggled for any continuity after his disrupted summer, playing only 429 minutes and scoring one goal for Liverpool since his record deadline day move.
Hugo Ekitike has led the line in the Swede’s absence and will be expected to do the same for Sunday’s trip to the Etihad, with Isak’s involvement for club and country resting on a return to training.