Unfamiliar youngster features in Liverpool training as Alexander Isak fitness progress revealed
Liverpool have received both encouragement and a surprise ahead of this weekend’s clash with Crystal Palace, as Sky Sports footage revealed Alexander Isak’s fitness progress alongside the appearance of a little-known academy winger.
Isak edging closer, Ekitike ruled out
The £125 million forward continues to sharpen up after his move from Newcastle, once again taking part in full training at the AXA Centre. Sky Sports noted he is “still building up his fitness,” but stressed that the Swede is clearly back “out there training.”
That comes as Hugo Ekitike sits out through suspension, after his second yellow card for removing his shirt in celebration during the Carabao Cup win over Southampton. The Frenchman has since apologised on Instagram, with Arne Slot also disciplining him for the costly lapse in judgment.
Ekitike has impressed with five goals and an assist in just eight games since joining, but his absence leaves Slot turning to either Isak or Federico Chiesa to spearhead the attack at Selhurst Park. The Italian has drawn plaudits for his contribution, with Sky highlighting his two assists against Southampton and noting how he is steadily cementing a key role.
Academy starlet spotted in training
Alongside the senior strikers, sharp-eyed journalist Lewis Bower pointed out another face in training — 18-year-old winger Kieran Morrison.
“ Kieran Morrison in first-team training ahead of Crystal Palace tomorrow. Briefly pictured,” Bower posted on X in response to Sky’s video.
The youngster, who rejected interest from Wolves, Burnley and several Bundesliga sides this summer, is expected to extend his deal at Liverpool. He has already featured on the bench in the League Cup, and with Giovanni Leoni sidelined by an ACL injury, he continues to train with the seniors while most of his peers return to the U21s.
Morrison has impressed for Rob Page’s side at academy level, predominantly playing from the right, and his inclusion underlines the club’s growing belief in his talent.
With Isak regaining sharpness, Ekitike unavailable, and Morrison stepping up, Liverpool head into their meeting with Oliver Glasner’s Palace side — unbeaten in their last 17 league matches — with an intriguing mix of options.
