Liverpool fans will have mixed feelings over what has just happened to Isak with Sweden - opinion
Below is a summary of the full article. Click here for the full version from Rousing the Kop or go back to LFC Live.
Things just keep going from bad to worse for Alexander Isak.The Reds had a hugely successful summer on paper, with the biggest talking point being the arrival of Isak for £125m.He built a reputation as being one of the best strikers on the planet, but so far he has been unable to show it at Liverpool due to fitness issues.Join our newsletter for news & smart analysis. Time away with Sweden over the international break looked like it was going to be a positive thing for the 26-year-old, but it turned into a bit of a nightmare.Liverpool fans, though, will have very mixed reactions, but they may feel a little more concerned rather than relieved.Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty ImagesAlexander Isak barely featured for Sweden over the international breakIsak was in need of minutes due to his injury issues, and due to Sweden’s poor run of form and Graham Potter taking charge, many would have thought he would play to help turn things around.However, in their first game against Switzerland, he played just 28 minutes, with the striker unable to make any sort of impact off the bench.But against Slovenia, Isak did not even get on the pitch, despite Sweden being 1-0 down for the last 30 minutes or so of the game.This would really make many question just how unfit he is, as when in need of minutes, as well as his country in need of a goal, he would seem the obvious choice to bring on.Liverpool fans might be happy, though, that he has not picked up any big injury, although the fact he barely featured means he is likely not fit enough to start at the weekend.READ MORE: ‘Exceptional’ Liverpool star could be given just 10 more games by Arne Slot to prove his worth Do you want Ibrahima Konate to sign a new contract and stay at Liverpool?
Photo by Visionhaus/Getty Images It is certainly a frustrating time for the Reds’ number nine, but fans have every right to question whether they have made a mistake signing him based on his start to the season.Hugo Ekitike has to start vs Nottingham ForestWhen both are fully fit, there is always a debate around whether it should be Isak or Hugo Ekitike who starts, but it is clear it has to be the latter against Nottingham Forest.The Frenchman has enjoyed a good week with his country, even scoring his first goal for them, while also getting a decent amount of minutes.However, Isak has had a bit of a torrid week, and based on the credit each of them have in the bank since they joined, Ekitike is simply above him in the pecking order.Slot will likely address Isak’s fitness in his pre-match press conference which is expected to take place on Friday, but either way, he likely starts this one on the bench.