Arne Slot has offered a firm and thoughtful response to the growing criticism surrounding Alexander Isak’s early challenges at Liverpool. As the Reds prepare for a tough Premier League trip to Leeds United, all eyes remain on Isak, whose goal-scoring form is expected to be essential for the team.
The Swedish forward made a high-profile switch to Anfield in the summer for a record-breaking fee after lengthy negotiations, and although his progress has been interrupted by fitness issues, the expectations around him have not diminished. It was only after the November international break that he managed to establish himself consistently in the starting XI, giving supporters a better sense of his capabilities within Slot’s developing system.
But with his return to regular action came closer analysis. Alan Shearer publicly questioned the way Liverpool are using Isak, particularly highlighting how little the striker seems to be involved in general play.
Those concerns grew louder when, despite scoring against West Ham United, Isak struggled to influence the following match against Sunderland. As Liverpool continue adjusting their attacking structure to accommodate several new faces, discussions about Isak’s low number of touches have become frequent talking points among fans and pundits.
During his recent press conference, Slot was directly confronted with this issue. One reporter noted that Isak had recorded only 14 touches across his last three starts and asked whether that was acceptable. Slot handled the question head-on, using it to add context rather than deflecting responsibility.
He responded: “No, it’s not ideal for me, no. But do you know how much he had at Newcastle on average?” When the reporter admitted he didn’t know, Slot supplied the answer: “Twenty-two.” He then explained that Premier League centre-forwards often operate with limited touches, and the key is what they do with the few chances they get.
In essence, Liverpool’s tactical approach prioritises efficiency and clinical finishing over constant involvement, and Isak’s current average is only slightly lower than his figures at Newcastle.
Another factor impacting Isak’s performances is the instability on Liverpool’s right flank. Injuries have forced Slot to use Joe Gomez, Curtis Jones, and Dominik Szoboszlai at right-back, even though none of them naturally fit that role.
This has limited the team’s attacking threat from that side and reduced the number of quality deliveries into the penalty area for Isak to attack. However, Slot provided positive updates regarding squad availability.
He confirmed that Gomez, despite taking a knock against West Ham, should return to training, and that Conor Bradley has trained fully this week and is expected to be available for the upcoming match. Bradley’s comeback could prove crucial, as his natural forward thrust and early crossing ability are likely to offer Isak the kind of service he thrives on.
As Liverpool continue their Premier League title defence, Isak remains a central figure in Slot’s vision. His intelligent movement, calmness in front of goal, and technical quality make him a key piece in this evolving side.
Slot believes that as the team settles, the supply improves, and players return to their natural positions, Isak will begin to show why Liverpool committed such a huge investment to bring him to Anfield.
