Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher has delivered his verdict on the Reds’ record signing Alexander Isak making his debut against Burnley this weekend.
The Premier League champions return to action after the international break on Sunday afternoon, making the trip to Turf Moor to take on the Clarets.
On paper, Liverpool will be the resounding favourites to prevail against Burnley, given the gulf in quality between the two sides, but shocks are always possible in the competition.
There is the potential for Isak to make his Reds debut on Sunday, with the Swede completing a British record £125m move from Newcastle United on deadline day, with fans desperate to see him get started for the Merseysiders.
Speaking on Stick to Football [via The Liverpool Echo], Carragher shot down Gary Neville’s claim that Isak could start away to the Clarets, given his lack of playing time: “No, no. He only come on for 20 minutes for Sweden.”
Will Isak start for Liverpool against Burnley?
Arne Slot has a big decision to make with Isak, with the 25-year-old no doubt desperate to go straight into Liverpool’s starting lineup, having looked sharp in training on Wednesday.
The Reds’ shiny new signing is lacking match fitness, however, having been cast aside by Newcastle in the opening weeks of the season, so it would be a surprise if he was named in the XI this weekend.
Instead, Hugo Ekitike feels far more likely to lead the line, with the Frenchman looking to continue his good start to life at Liverpool, with Isak then being introduced at some point during the second half.
By that point, the Reds will hopefully be out of sight in the game, but if they do need a goal, the former Newcastle star would be a perfect man to bring on.
Isak could then push harder for a start against Atletico Madrid in the Champions League next Wednesday evening, or against Everton in the Premier League three days later, with both games taking place at Anfield.
Predicted Liverpool XI to face Burnley: Alisson; Szoboszlai, Konate, Van Dijk, Kerkez; Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Salah, Wirtz, Gakpo; Ekitike.
