Liverpool Striker Alexander Isak on Track for April Comeback After Serious Injury
Liverpool manager Arne Slot has provided an optimistic update on the recovery of striker Alexander Isak, who is anticipated to return to action in April following a significant leg injury. The £125 million summer signing sustained a fractured left leg and an ankle injury during a match against Tottenham on 20 December, which required surgical intervention.
Rehabilitation Progress and Training Timeline
Isak has recently resumed light training, including running sessions this week, as part of his rehabilitation program. Slot indicated that if the striker continues to progress smoothly, he is likely to rejoin team training by the end of March or early April. However, the head coach emphasized that returning to the group does not immediately translate to match readiness, noting that previous injuries have shown Isak needs time to regain full fitness.
The manager stated, "It will be around that period of time – end of March, start of April – where he is hopefully back with the group. When you are back with the group, that is not to say you are ready to play, let alone start a game of football, because again he’s been out for months and the last time he was out for months we could all see it took him a while before he was the player who we signed from Newcastle."
Isak's Season Challenges and Performance
Since his high-profile transfer from Newcastle United, Isak has faced a challenging debut season with Liverpool. He has made 16 appearances, scoring three goals, but his campaign has been marred by injuries. In addition to the leg fracture, he missed four matches in October due to a groin issue, further limiting his impact on the pitch.
Slot highlighted the importance of a gradual return, explaining that Isak will need to progress through stages, including ball work and integration into team drills, before being considered for selection. The manager praised the efforts of both Isak and the medical staff, noting that the rehabilitation process is proceeding positively.
As Liverpool prepares for upcoming fixtures, including a match against Nottingham Forest, the team remains hopeful that Isak's return will bolster their attacking options in the crucial final stages of the season.
