Alexander Isak was expected to be at least on the bench for Liverpool’s FA Cup quarter-final, but a setback has left his return in doubt.
At least, until updates from Arne Slot and James Pearce, who are saying the same thing about the Swede’s expected return to action.
Liverpool were woeful against Man City, and surely could have used a big-game player like Isak, even if he isn’t 100%. That will again be the hope against PSG in the Champions League — a game four days from now, before which time he should be cleared to play.
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Manchester City v Liverpool - Emirates FA Cup Quarter Final
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James Pearce and Arne Slot on Alexander Isak
Liverpool reporter Pearce was speaking about Isak’s delays the day before he missed the squad for the City game.
He explained on talkSPORT: “I was told the other day the expectation is he’ll certainly play some part in the tie against PSG. So, whether that’s hopefully maybe off the bench in the first leg, if not in the second one at Anfield.”
In an ideal world, Isak would make an impact off the bench in Paris. That hope was echoed by Slot on TNT Sports ahead of the City clash.
The Liverpool manager remarked: “I was hoping the same [that Isak would be among the substitutes on Saturday], but you always do these things in co-operation with medical staff, performance staff and the player himself.
Arne Slot manager / head coach of Liverpool and Alexander Isak of Liverpool during the Premier League match between Liverpool and Manchester United at Anfield
Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images
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“We came to the conclusion that it was better for him to have a few more sessions than only one or two and then immediately jump into a game like this, where if you bring him in there might be extra-time.
“The situation is now that I hope – again I hope – that he will be available for Wednesday, but today came too early for him.”
Hope is the key word there. Isak missed the deadline to return against City, and there’s every chance that happens again. Fans will be praying he can make an impact, especially after Hugo Ekitike again failed to show up in a big game.
Liverpool have just one trophy to play for now, and will need every edge they can muster against the defending European champions.
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