Liverpool head coach Andoni Iraola has confirmed that Alexander Isak and Cody Gakpo will miss Sunday's Premier League clash against Manchester City at Anfield. Both players picked up injuries during the international break and have been ruled out of the top-of-the-table encounter.
Double injury blow for Liverpool
Isak was forced to withdraw from the Sweden squad after sustaining a minor thigh injury during the 2-1 win over Romania in the Nations League. Gakpo, meanwhile, picked up an ankle issue while playing for the Netherlands against Serbia.
The pair's absence raises concerns over how Liverpool will line up in attack against the Premier League leaders. Isak has scored four Premier League goals this season, including the winner against Bournemouth three weeks ago, showing signs of the form that prompted the Reds to spend £125 million on him last summer. Gakpo has been Liverpool's best performing attacker with two goals and four assists across all competitions.
Iraola's update on injured forwards
Speaking on Friday, Iraola delivered a fresh update on his injured forwards. He said: "Yes, Alex Isak and Gakpo will not play, they are not ready unfortunately for us. They got injuries during the international break."
"You are always waiting hoping the doctor doesn't call you with bad news, but we have been unlucky. They are not going to be involved," he added.
"Gakpo has an ankle injury, a matter of him dealing with the pain. A bad tackle I think. He is working but not for Sunday. Isak has a thigh injury, whenever he feels ready they don't look like long-term injuries. But they are not ready for Sunday."
