Liverpool have received a significant boost ahead of their crucial Champions League quarter-final clash with Paris Saint-Germain, as striker Alexander Isak returns to the squad following a lengthy 15-week injury layoff. The Sweden international has been named in the travelling party for Wednesday's match in Paris, marking his first availability since December.
Isak's Struggles and Injury Setback
The 26-year-old forward has endured a difficult period since his high-profile £125 million deadline-day transfer from Newcastle United. Isak has managed only 16 appearances for Liverpool, with his time at Anfield hampered by persistent fitness issues and minor injuries before a major setback occurred.
His serious injury came during Liverpool's 2-1 victory against Tottenham in December, when he sustained damage in a tackle by Micky van de Ven while scoring the opening goal. The incident resulted in an ankle injury requiring surgery, including treatment for a fibula fracture, which has kept him sidelined for over three months.
Timely Return for Struggling Reds
Isak's return comes at a critical moment for manager Arne Slot and his team, who have faced mounting pressure following a series of disappointing performances. The situation worsened with Saturday's humiliating 4-0 defeat at Manchester City, which eliminated Liverpool from the FA Cup at the quarter-final stage.
The striker resumed team training last Thursday and participated in sessions with his teammates on Tuesday morning before the squad departed for France, confirming his readiness for the European fixture.
Champions League Rematch Context
Wednesday's encounter represents a rematch of last season's Champions League round of 16 tie between the two clubs. Liverpool initially won 1-0 in Paris thanks to a late Harvey Elliott goal, but PSG leveled the aggregate score through Ousmane Dembele at Anfield before progressing via a penalty shootout victory.
PSG went on to eliminate two additional Premier League opponents, Aston Villa and Arsenal, before thrashing Inter Milan 5-0 in a one-sided final in Munich to claim their first-ever Champions League trophy.
Favourites and Underdogs
Paris Saint-Germain enter the quarter-final tie as clear favourites, largely due to Liverpool's ongoing struggles this season and their recent poor form. Isak's return provides a glimmer of hope for the Reds as they attempt to overcome the odds against the reigning European champions.
