Paul Joyce hits Liverpool with fresh injury blow before Real Madrid showdown

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Liverpool look set to be without Alexander Isak for the much-anticipated Champions League clash with Real Madrid this week, following a new update from Paul Joyce. For Liverpool, it is a crucial game in their efforts to reach the Champions League knockout rounds, with last month’s 1-0 defeat away to Galatasaray giving them some work to do.

Now, writing on X on Monday, Joyce confirmed that Isak didn’t take part in team training, suggesting that he will miss out against Madrid at Anfield: “Alexander Isak misses Liverpool training ahead of Real Madrid. Curtis Jones back with group.” Isak’s Liverpool career off to frustrating start Isak simply hasn’t been able to get going in a Liverpool shirt yet, having arrived without a proper pre-season behind him, followed by picking up an injury.

For now, Hugo Ekitike looks likely to continue leading the line, with the Frenchman Liverpool’s most successful summer signing so far, with Mohamed Salah and Cody Gakpo expected to be on either flank against Madrid. The former did well in Saturday’s 2-0 win at home to Aston Villa in the league, and given the latter’s struggles at Liverpool so far, playing the Scot arguably makes more sense, with his experience key on a big night at Anfield.