Michael Owen has warned Liverpool's record signing Alexander Isak that he is 'running out of excuses' after another underwhelming display in the 2-2 draw at Newcastle United on Sunday. The former Reds striker's comments come after the Sweden international, who cost £125 million last summer, failed to make an impact at St James' Park, where he was jeered by fans who once lauded him.
Isak's struggles continue at St James' Park
Isak, 26, endured a wretched first season at Anfield, with injuries restricting him to just nine Premier League starts. He was outshone by Hugo Ekitike, who joined from Eintracht Frankfurt in the same transfer window. Despite starring at the World Cup and enjoying a full pre-season under new boss Andoni Iraola, Isak laboured in the febrile atmosphere on Sunday.
Liverpool were fortunate to escape with a point after Dominik Szoboszlai converted a 97th-minute penalty to make it 2-2. But Owen, speaking to talkSPORT, admitted the Reds need to see a return on their huge investment.
Owen: 'We're running out of excuses'
'I had plenty of injuries in my career so I know how hard it is to get back and you do need a bit of time,' Owen said. 'We've given him time, everyone has given him time and understood that. But he's finished the season, then he's gone to the World Cup and now he's had a pre-season and you just think OK, now we're starting to run out of excuses.'
Owen added: 'We need to see the real Isak and we know how good he is. Wow, we saw him for Newcastle and he's absolute class. We haven't seen it for Liverpool just yet and questions will come now. As I say, always give him the benefit of doubt in the past but at the start of this season we're expecting.'
Iraola defends Isak after jeers
Iraola denied that the abuse Isak received, a result of effectively going on strike last summer to force his move, played a part in the display. 'I think he expected a bit the atmosphere, it was not a big surprise for him,' Iraola said. 'He has tried everything, given us good positions on the ball, has had a couple of situations to finish in the box but not the clearest but I value that he has continued pushing, fighting.'
Owen also highlighted the lack of attacking options, noting: 'Liverpool absolutely need him, they've lost Salah, Ekitike is out, there's not that many options in attacking areas. They absolutely need him in top form and yesterday he was far from it, I thought he was a yard off and that's worrying.'
