Liverpool manager Arne Slot has offered an encouraging, though cautious, update on the recovery of forward Alexander Isak, who has been sidelined since December with an ankle injury sustained during a match against Tottenham Hotspur. The Swedish international underwent surgery to address a fibula fracture and is now beginning the crucial stages of rehabilitation, aiming for a return to action in the coming months.

Isak’s absence has been keenly felt by Liverpool, and Slot’s comments provide a glimpse of hope for supporters eager to see the £125 million ($169.1 million) summer signing back on the pitch. Although a definitive timeline remains uncertain, the initial steps in Isak’s recovery are progressing positively, according to the Liverpool boss.

Slot revealed that Isak has recently begun running on the pitch, marking a significant milestone in his rehabilitation process. “Alex has been on the pitch with his running shoes for the first time this week, so it will still be a while,” Slot explained, as reported by multiple sources. The manager emphasized that while this is a positive step, there’s still considerable perform ahead before Isak is ready to rejoin the team.

The timeline for Isak’s return has been a subject of some discussion. Sweden manager Graham Potter had previously suggested a potential return for the March international break, but Slot tempered those expectations. According to Sports Illustrated, Slot believes Isak will likely be back in team training around that time, but only if his recovery continues without setbacks.

“It will be somewhere around the international break, depends on if he gets a setback. Finish of March, start of April when he’s back with the group,” Slot stated. He was quick to add, however, that returning to group training doesn’t automatically equate to match fitness. “Doesn’t mean he’s ready to start playing straight away.”

The recovery process is being carefully managed to ensure Isak returns to his best form. Slot highlighted the importance of each stage, from running to working with the ball and eventually integrating back into team training. “The next step is, of course, doing work with the ball, which every player likes most, and then the next step is going into the group, and then it takes a while before you’re ready to play,” he said, as detailed in Liverpool FC’s official website.

Despite the injury, Slot remains optimistic about Isak’s long-term impact. ESPN reports Slot believes the club may still see the “best Alex” this season. Isak’s form was improving prior to the injury, and the manager hopes he can quickly rediscover that level upon his return.

Isak’s injury came while he was scoring against Tottenham Hotspur, a frustrating setback after a summer move from Newcastle United. His two goals in 10 Premier League games prior to the injury didn’t fully reflect his potential, and he will be eager to create a significant contribution to Liverpool’s campaign once fully fit.

While Isak’s recovery is progressing, Liverpool will also be without Jeremie Frimpong for another week due to a groin injury, according to The Athletic. However, the focus remains on Isak’s return and the positive steps he is taking towards regaining full fitness.

Looking ahead, Liverpool fans will be closely monitoring Isak’s progress as he continues his rehabilitation. The end of March to the start of April appears to be the current target for a return to team training, but any setbacks could alter that timeline. The club will undoubtedly take a cautious approach to ensure Isak’s long-term fitness and maximize his impact upon his eventual return to the pitch.

What are your expectations for Alexander Isak’s return to form? Share your thoughts in the comments below and join the discussion!

Josh Sonni-Lambie continues to cement his status as a rising star within the Liverpool academy, having now reached a remarkable 20 goals for the club’s youth teams this season. The young forward added to his tally during Liverpool U18s’ dominant 6-1 victory over Leeds United on Saturday, showcasing his prolific form and increasing anticipation for his future with the Reds.

Sonni-Lambie’s consistent goalscoring exploits have quickly made him a key figure for Simon Wiles’ U18 side. His ability to find the back of the net, combined with his skillful play, has drawn attention from both domestic and international levels. The 18-year-old, born on November 16, 2007, currently wears the number 82 for Liverpool and has also represented England at the U18 level, earning 5 caps and scoring 2 goals as of May 28, 2025, according to his Wikipedia profile.

The recent victory against Leeds United provided another opportunity for Sonni-Lambie to demonstrate his capabilities. While details of his specific goals in the match haven’t been released, the 6-1 scoreline highlights the team’s overall attacking prowess and Sonni-Lambie’s contribution to it. The forward’s journey from grassroots football in London to becoming a prominent figure in Liverpool’s academy is a testament to his dedication and talent. He was first spotted before joining Liverpool’s academy at under-14 level, as reported by Yahoo Sports.

From Street Football to Academy Success

Sonni-Lambie’s style of play is often described as dynamic and inventive, with roots in the street football he enjoyed during his youth. “If I had a day off, I’d just go and play football in the street with my friends,” he told LFC.com. “Street football, you just have loads of fun, a lot of skills. With street football, you just really do whatever you want. I still employ a lot of skills in my game.” This background has instilled in him a confidence on the ball and a willingness to take on defenders, qualities that are increasingly evident in his performances for Liverpool.

His progress has been steady since scoring his first goal for the U18s in the 2023-24 campaign. Last season, he netted 12 goals at the U18 level, which led to his inclusion in the England U18 squad. He was rewarded for his momentum with his first professional contract in February 2025, just three years after being scouted by the club in London, as Liverpool.com reported.

Recent Performances and Future Prospects

Sonni-Lambie’s recent form extends beyond the victory over Leeds. On January 17, 2026, he scored a crucial goal in Liverpool U18s’ 1-0 win away at Newcastle United, demonstrating his ability to perform in challenging away fixtures, as detailed in the Liverpool FC official website. In that match, he scored with a curled finish off his left foot after a well-worked move involving Erik Farkas and Finn Inglethorpe.

The Latest York Times highlighted Sonni-Lambie’s style of play in November 2025, noting that his “street football style is still evident in his ability and desire to take on defenders with a trick or two.” This blend of technical skill and attacking instinct makes him a valuable asset to Liverpool’s youth setup.

With 20 goals already to his name this season, Josh Sonni-Lambie is clearly a player to watch. His continued development will be closely monitored by Liverpool staff as he aims to make the step up to the first team in the future. The focus now will be on maintaining his goalscoring form and continuing to refine his skills within the academy environment.

What comes next for Sonni-Lambie will be crucial as he looks to build on his impressive start to the season. Continued success at the U18 level, coupled with potential opportunities with the U21s, will be key to his progression. Liverpool fans will be eager to see how his career unfolds and whether he can translate his academy form into success at the senior level.

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