Liverpool striker Alexander Isak has resumed full first-team training after a four-month absence due to a fractured fibula and ankle injury, manager Arne Slot confirmed on Wednesday. The Swedish international, sidelined since suffering the injury in December against Tottenham Hotspur, is now nearing a return as Liverpool prepare for crucial FA Cup and Champions League fixtures.
Isak, 26, rejoined group sessions at Liverpool’s training ground on Thursday. The forward underwent surgery following his injury in the 2-1 win over Spurs on December 20, which resulted from a challenge by Micky van de Ven. Before the setback interrupted his debut campaign at Anfield, Isak had made 16 appearances and scored three goals for Liverpool. He arrived from Newcastle United last September for a British record transfer fee of £125 million.
Head coach Arne Slot spoke about the striker’s return, stating, “If you’ve worked so hard for three, four months or something like that and then to return to team training, that’s for everyone very nice. So Alex is, in that sense, in a good place.” Slot also noted that Sweden’s qualification for the world cup has lifted Isak’s spirits ahead of his comeback.
The timing of Isak’s recovery is significant as Liverpool face Manchester City in the FA Cup quarter-final at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday. Slot indicated that although Isak has returned to the squad, the club will likely proceed cautiously regarding his involvement. Reports suggest Isak is expected to be named among the substitutes against City and could make an appearance off the bench as he regains match fitness.
Liverpool’s medical staff will continue to monitor Isak closely as he reintegrates into full training. The club faces a packed schedule, with Paris Saint-Germain visiting Anfield for a Champions League tie next Wednesday. Sources indicate Isak could also feature as a substitute against PSG if his progress in training continues positively this week.
Isak’s absence has been noticeable during what has become a frustrating debut season for the record signing. Before his injury, he scored three times in 16 outings but struggled to find consistent form due to fitness setbacks.
His return comes as Liverpool welcome back other key players after the international break. Mohamed Salah and Federico Chiesa are both expected to be available against Manchester City.
Meanwhile, Jeremie Frimpong is undergoing further assessment after being forced off during international duty with the Netherlands. Dutch team doctors described his substitution as precautionary, but he is set for a scan to determine the extent of his issue.
Slot acknowledged Isak’s quality and the boost he brings to Liverpool’s attacking options. “To have him again in a team that’s usually generating quite a lot of chances, and maybe not immediately from the first moment that he can start, but to have him back for the last two months is very helpful for us.”
Goalkeeper Alisson Becker remains unavailable due to ongoing fitness concerns. Giorgi Mamardashvili is set to continue as first choice between the posts for this weekend’s crucial FA Cup clash.
Isak’s anticipated bench role against Manchester City marks his first involvement since December, capping off an intensive rehabilitation program overseen by Liverpool’s medical staff. The club will manage his minutes carefully as they balance immediate squad needs with long-term player welfare during this decisive run of fixtures.
