Liverpool have been sent a positive message about Alexander Isak potentially featuring in the World Cup for Sweden this summer
Liverpool striker Alexander Isak
Liverpool striker Alexander Isak(Image: Alex Pantling/Getty Images)
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Liverpool have been told Alexander Isak isn't yet a world-class striker - but has the potential to become a "very good fit" provided they address his injury problems. Isak is presently sidelined as he recovers from the broken leg he suffered when caught by Micky van de Ven while scoring in the Reds' 2-1 win at Tottenham Hotspur before Christmas.
The 26-year-old has managed only 10 starts for the Reds having initially missed out on a proper pre-season ahead of his British record £125million move from Newcastle United, and later had a spell out with a groin problem before his current setback.
Isak missed only eight games in all competitions during three years at Real Sociedad and, following several months out with a thigh problem shortly after moving to Newcastle in August 2022, was absent for just 12 of the next 96 Premier League games for the Magpies before the start of this season.
Nevertheless, former Sweden and Arsenal midfielder Stefan Schwarz believes continued fitness issues are the chief concern surrounding Isak.
"First Alexander Isak has to come back from his injury and I think he will be a very good fit for Liverpool once he is fit," said Schwarz.
“He's a young player. He has a lot of qualities. He’s very cool in the box, a very good finisher. He can produce magic in small areas and tight spaces. The only problem is his injury history.
“I think Liverpool will work with Isak to get the right balance so he doesn’t miss out on too many games when he returns so he is a much better player for next season. He is a top striker but when you don’t have the continuity, and you are injured, it’s very difficult to reach the top again.
“He isn’t a world-class striker right now but he has the potential to be one.”
Isak is likely to miss Sweden's attempt to qualify for the World Cup in March, with Graham Potter's side having to win at Ukraine before a final match against either Poland or Albania.
And speaking to BOYLE Sports, who offer the latest Premier League odds, Schwarz reckons Liverpool could benefit should Isak feature in the finals this summer.
“It looks very difficult for Alexander Isak to participate in Sweden's play-off for the World Cup against Ukraine but the most important thing for him is to get back fully fit and recovered so he’s well prepared to get a good number of games under his belt," said Isak.
"Liverpool will need the player they were looking for when they signed Isak to get them goals.
“I think it's always a positive thing if a player goes to the World Cup, European Championship or AFCON. It's always beneficial for the player because you compete against the best.
"It gives you the belief and the drive to show your skills to the rest of the world. If you have a good tournament then your club will benefit as well.”