Arne Slot updates on Alexander Isak nearing rehab completion
Liverpool head coach Arne Slot stated on Thursday that he expects forward Alexander Isak to be approaching the "final stages of rehab" and might be available again by late next month to support the Reds in their efforts to secure Champions League spots.
The UK record acquisition has been absent since mid December after breaking a bone in his lower leg, which required ankle surgery due to a challenge from Tottenhams Micky van de Ven.
This setback occurred right when the 26 year old Swedish international Isak, who moved to Premier League title holders Liverpool for £125 million ($169 million) from fellow top division side Newcastle in September, was starting to hit his stride at Anfield, scoring twice in six appearances.
"Alex has been out on the training ground, not in his football boots yet but in running shoes for the first time this week," Slot shared with journalists.
"The following phase involves ball work, which is what every player enjoys the most, followed by integrating with the squad, and then it takes additional time before youre match fit.
"We anticipate his return to the group sometime around late March or early April. That does not mean hell be ready to feature, much less start.
"Still, its great to see the rehab progressing smoothly, which reflects well on him and our medical team.
"Everyone understands that once youre back on the pitch, it does not take three months, but these last rehab phases can still influence the timeline."
Isak remains one of five Liverpool senior squad members out injured, though only right back Jeremie Frimpong is near a comeback.
The defender has missed action since late last month with a hamstring problem but should be fit for next weekends away game at West Ham.
Beneficial break
Liverpool enjoyed an unusual match free week before their Sunday journey to Nottingham Forest.
"Its helpful and refreshing since most of our players, nine out of ten, head off to international duty, leaving them with little downtime for seven, eight, or nine months," explained Dutch manager Slot, who added that he personally did not require any break.
"It was pleasant, but I did not truly need it. During last season, I sensed more need for rest at this stage. Im thoroughly enjoying my role here."
Liverpool, following a sluggish beginning to their championship defence, now sit sixth, just three points shy of fourth place with 12 fixtures remaining.
Upcoming, they face three of the lowest ranked teams as they aim to climb into Champions League contention.
Premier League frontrunners Arsenal hold a mere five point advantage over runners up Manchester City after squandering a two goal cushion in a surprising 2 2 stalemate at bottom of the table Wolves on Wednesday.
Nevertheless, Slot remarked: "We did not require yesterdays result to appreciate the challenge of Premier League victories. What has improved the Premier League this season compared to three, four, five, or even six years back is its heightened competitiveness."