Liverpool striker Alexander Isak scored in Sweden's Nations League victory over Romania but will now return to Anfield earlier than planned after suffering a knock
Alexander Isak looks on during a Sweden training session
Alexander Isak is returning to Liverpool(Image: Patrick Smith/FIFA)
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Liverpool have announced that Alexander Isak has returned early from international duty after sustaining a 'minor injury' during a Sweden game.
The Reds striker scored in a 2-1 win for Graham Potter's team over Romania to continue his prolific start to the season. However, Isak's evening was marred by an ugly toe injury which left his foot bloodied, although he played down the severity of the issue during a post-match conversation with the media.
"You can see it [the injury], "Isak is said to have told reporters. "It was a real stamp. Those of you who have played might know that it takes a few minutes before it lets go, but it was okay."
Though Isak did not seem concerned, it has now been confirmed by Liverpool that he will no longer participate in Sweden's remaining three fixtures during the international break.
"Alexander Isak is to return to Liverpool from international duty due to a minor injury," a Liverpool statement read.
"The striker will not be involved in Sweden’s three remaining fixtures in the current international break and will now be assessed by club medical staff at the AXA Training Centre."
After enduring a challenging maiden campaign at Anfield, Isak has finally started to show glimpses of a return to form in the opening weeks of the 2026-27 campaign, scoring four Premier League goals in five games for Liverpool.
That return is already better than Isak's goal tally for last season - but Andoni Iraola wants even more from the 27-year-old following his return to form.
Liverpool's Swedish striker #09 Alexander Isak (R) celebrates after scoring his team's first goal during the English Premier League football match between Bournemouth and Liverpool at the Vitality Stadium in Bournemouth, southern England on September 20, 2026. (Photo by Glyn KIRK/AFP via Getty Images) / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE. No use with unauthorized audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or 'live' services. Online in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No video emulation. Social media in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No use in betting publications, games or single club/league/player publications.
Isak has started the season in fine form for club and country(Image: Glyn KIRK/AFP via Getty Images)
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Speaking after Isak plundered the winner against Bournemouth prior to the break, Iraola called for the striker to be more involved in play, saying: “He took the chance after a quiet afternoon – and that’s what a striker’s job is like.
“He had a couple of situations, a cross he didn’t hit properly, one when his control wasn’t right and then the goal.
“But he has to help us to be closer to the box, to play in the opposition half and to have meaningful possession.
“Then, if the team is playing there, he will receive the rewards in terms of goals. We need that level so that we can play better.”
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