Liverpools Alexander Isak…

Arne Slot has emphasized that it is “definitely too early” to expect Alexander Isak to be included in Liverpool’s starting lineup following his return to training, although he acknowledged that having him back is “very positive.”

Isak participated in team training on Thursday for the first time since suffering a leg and ankle fracture during a 2-1 win over Tottenham Hotspur last December. This injury added to what has been a challenging initial season at Anfield for the striker, who transferred to the club for £125 million ($164m) from Newcastle United last summer.

While Isak is unlikely to play a major role in Saturday’s FA Cup quarterfinal against Manchester City, his potential availability could provide a significant boost to the Reds as the season progresses.

“It’s definitely too soon to expect him in the starting lineup,” Slot remarked.

“He trained with us for the first time yesterday, and today will be his second session after exactly 101 days. It will take some time to build him up to match fitness, but having him back on the training pitch is very encouraging. Having him available for games would be even better, no doubt.”

Regarding the possibility of Isak coming off the bench against City, Slot noted: “It’s a tough decision since this isn’t a typical match. If it goes to extra time, things become trickier if we intend to limit his minutes to around ten. We can substitute him out if we have enough players available, perhaps for a few minutes. But we need to wait and see how he feels after today’s session. Clearly, expecting him to start tomorrow after two training sessions in 100 days wouldn’t make much sense.”

“He hasn’t just missed the preseason; he also missed the end of Newcastle’s season and did not participate with the national team, so he’s missed significant time. What’s realistic? I believe the rehab team has done a fantastic job. If I compare him now to before his injury, he appears much stronger and physically in a better condition. However, transitioning from 100 days off to the high intensity of the Premier League and the later stages of the Champions League, where the competition is even tougher, sets realistic expectations very high, which is challenging.”

– What would the Premier League table look like without set-piece goals?
– Weekend predictions: Man City or Liverpool to win the FA Cup?

“I’m genuinely pleased to have a number 9 available again, either behind Hugo [Ekitike] or alongside him, which is already a positive development. As for expectations, I’ve frequently said that next season, once he has a full preseason, we can anticipate even more from him. However, just his current status is a major improvement compared to when he arrived.”

Slot also confirmed that goalkeeper Alisson Becker will miss the match against Manchester City as well as next week’s Champions League game against Paris Saint-Germain. However, both Jeremie Frimpong and Mohamed Salah—who recently announced that this season will be his last at Liverpool—should be ready to play against City.

Regarding Salah, Slot mentioned: “He trained with us yesterday and will train again today. He is available for tomorrow’s game. Since his announcement, he’s received the recognition he truly deserves from his teammates, highlighting his legacy during discussions.

“Salah has been extraordinary for this club over the years, contributing numerous goals and winning various trophies. I came across a beautiful photo of him surrounded by all the trophies he has won, both individually and as part of the team. I can only hope he can add two more trophies to his collection before the season concludes.”