“Arne Slot outlines Alexander Isak’s biggest hurdle to overcome at Liverpool”

Arne Slot has outlined what he sees as Alexander Isak’s biggest task over the coming months.

The Swedish striker completed a £125m move to Liverpool from Newcastle on deadline day after a drawn-out transfer saga. During his final weeks at St. James’ Park, he trained separately from the first team after making clear his desire to join the Reds.

Isak made his first appearance since May during the recent international break, coming on as a late substitute for Sweden. Slot admits that getting the 25-year-old back to full fitness is the top priority.

“Getting fit – that’s the main challenge after missing four months of proper team sessions,” Slot told Irish News. “He’s already shown at Newcastle that he’s good enough for the Premier League. What he needs now is to reach a level where he can play 90 minutes, then do it three times a week, and then go one step further in terms of pressing. The goals and attacking quality will follow naturally.”

Isak enjoyed a superb campaign last season, netting 27 goals and providing six assists in 42 matches, including scoring in Newcastle’s cup final triumph over Liverpool at Wembley.

Slot appears determined not to put too much pressure on his new striker straight away, instead focusing on gradually building him up.

Liverpool kick off their Champions League campaign against Atletico Madrid at Anfield tomorrow, and while Isak’s involvement is uncertain, Slot did hint he could feature:

“Normally I’d say 99.9 per cent sure, but this time I can say 100 per cent he won’t play the full 90 minutes,” the manager added. “If people are looking forward to seeing him play, there’s a chance they’ll get that tomorrow.”