Alexander Isak downplays Liverpool claim

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Alexander Isak made his first appearance since May during Sweden’s shock 2-0 World Cup qualifying defeat to Kosovo on Monday night.

Isak came on as a second-half substitute, replacing former Newcastle teammate Anthony Elanga for the final 18 minutes with Sweden already trailing by two goals.

Isak, who joined Liverpool from Newcastle on transfer deadline day for a British record fee of £125million, looked lively in his cameo.

He registered three attempts on goal – two on target – but was also booked following a clash with Kosovo defender Fidan Aliti.

The 25-year-old had been an unused substitute in Sweden’s 2-2 draw with Slovenia on Friday, sparking speculation in the Swedish media that Liverpool had requested his minutes be managed carefully to protect his fitness.

However, Isak dismissed those claims, insisting his limited involvement was simply part of his efforts to build match sharpness after a long absence.

Isak said: “Not that I know of.

I’m with the national team now.

“Clubs and national teams have contact but it’s between them in such cases.

“(I played) 20 minutes and it felt okay.”

“It’s great that everything was settled before the camp and that I could focus on playing football again,” he added.

“It’s been a fairly new situation for me, but you always learn and develop mentally off the pitch as well.”

Sweden boss Jon Dahl Tomasson explained that Isak’s limited involvement during the international break was a decision made jointly with the striker.

“I gave him the maximum number of minutes,” he said to Viaplay.

“We have talked during this meeting about what is a risk and what is not a risk.

“It is, of course, very difficult?

You see he is dangerous and creates chances.

“But we need him next month, the month after that and next year.”

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