Why Alexander Isak was spotted training alone before Sweden vs Netherlands at FIFA World Cup
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Liverpool FC NewsFeaturesAlexander IsakAlexander Isak did not take a full part in Sweden's training session today, but the Liverpool ace should still be fine to take on the Netherlands at the weekendAlexander Isak during Sweden 5-1 Tunisia at the World Cup.(Image: David Ramos/Getty Images)Liverpool striker Alexander Isak only took part in parts of the Sweden training session that was held earlier today as Graham Potter's side gears up to take on the Netherlands.Having beaten Tunisia 5-1 in their opening game, Sweden will be looking to get another three points on the board when it comes up against Virgil van Dijk, Cody Gakpo and Ryan Gravenberch on Saturday.However, while Isak impressed — and scored — on his World Cup debut, the fitness of the Liverpool ace is still being carefully managed, hence why he did some training alone rather than with the main group.In his first season at Liverpool, Isak arrived lacking match sharpness and then broke his leg in December, just when he was looking set to get up to speed.Isak was signed for $169 million (£125 million) for a reason, though, and his quality is not in question. Sweden clarified, via SVT Sport, that the striker was simply undertaking what is essentially an "extra recovery day" and working to an "individual plan".Alexander Isak poses for a photograph with the Superior Player of the Match award after the team's victory in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group F match between Sweden and Tunisia at Monterrey Stadium on June 14, 2026(Image: Manuel Velasquez - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)"He needs to play football matches — he's not played!" Reds legend Phil Thompson said this week."Because he had controversy last pre-season, he never got a pre-season.
If you don't have that under your belt, then you come back, and you're playing catch-up."Then you're trying to be bit-fed into the side, because everyone wants to see him, but you can't [play him], and then you risk injury."He comes back, he gets an injury, then against Spurs, he gets a broken leg. Learn moreLiverpool FC have launched their new home kit for the 2026/27, inspired by iconic adidas strip worn during the club's 1989/90 title-winning campaign."He's not had enough games.
He's never been fit enough."Liverpool.com says: Isak playing well for Sweden can only be a good thing for the Reds. If he does, that will be a massive boost to Iraola's chances of a positive debut campaign.Choose Liverpool.com as a 'Preferred Source' on Google News for quick access to the news you value.Liverpool FCAlexander IsakFIFA World Cup