Jamie Carragher has heaped praise on Alexander Isak following the summer acquisition's contribution to Liverpool's win on Sunday.
The Reds were desperately seeking a response after an abysmal week that saw them comprehensively defeated by both Nottingham Forest and PSV Eindhoven. Those setbacks were part of a broader spell that had witnessed them suffer nine losses in their previous 12 matches across all competitions.
There was an almost palpable sense of relief in the second half when Isak finally netted his maiden Premier League goal for the Reds, composedly converting from a Cody Gakpo pass. The Dutchman then transitioned from provider to scorer as he added a second for Liverpool late on, with the visitors down to 10 men following Lucas Paqueta's dismissal.
Speaking afterwards, former Reds defender Carragher lauded the striker for his composure in the penalty area on what was a challenging opportunity to convert.
He also highlighted how pivotal a moment it could prove for the Swede as he attempts to finally kickstart his Anfield career.
"It was a big moment for him," Carragher told Sky Sports post-match. "He had a couple of chances first half and one he should have done better with.
Alexander Isak opened the scoring for Liverpool on Sunday
Alexander Isak opened the scoring for Liverpool on Sunday (Image: Getty Images)
"Isak does really well. He finds space in the box, and it's not easy to find space with so many numbers in there.
"West Ham have probably got everyone back behind the ball.
"He drops off the defenders there, and it's a lovely, cushioned finish.
"It's one of those that just bounces, and then he gets a really good contact on it."
Arne Slot's team will be back in action midweek when Sunderland pay a visit, followed by an away game at Elland Road against Leeds. The victory over West Ham leaves Liverpool just three points shy of the top four, suggesting a string of positive outcomes could help the Reds regain their season's momentum.
Particularly for Isak, he has now netted two goals in his 12 appearances across all competitions, along with one assist, which was recorded in the narrow loss to Chelsea earlier this season.
This follows his last-minute transfer to Liverpool, where he joined the champions from Newcastle.
However, he didn't have a preseason as he went on strike to push through the move this summer, meaning he needs to be gradually reintroduced to reach peak fitness.