Liverpool manager Arne Slot has provided an update on Alexander Isak's recovery from a fractured fibula, warning that the striker will not be rushed back. The Swedish international has been sidelined since December after suffering the injury while scoring against Tottenham.
Isak, who joined Liverpool from Newcastle for a club-record £125million in September, has struggled with fitness issues this season. He has only scored three goals in 17 appearances, hampered by a lack of pre-season and a groin problem.
Slot confirmed that Isak has begun running on the pitch but is still some way from returning to full training. 'Alex has been on the pitch with his running shoes for the first time this week,' Slot said. 'It will take a while before he is ready to play.'
The Liverpool boss indicated that Isak is targeting a return around the March international break, which could see him feature for Sweden in their World Cup play-off semi-final against Ukraine. 'It will be around that period of time; end of March, start of April,' Slot added.
Slot stressed that Isak will need time to regain match fitness after being out for months. 'When you are back with the group that is not to say you are ready to play,' he said. 'We haven't used the best Alex yet, but hopefully we will see the best Alex this season and in the upcoming years.'
