Liverpool’s late-season push for Champions League qualification has brought a welcome positive, as Alexander Isak finally opened his Premier League account at Anfield.
After months of frustration due to injuries and inconsistent availability, the Sweden international’s goal against Crystal Palace felt significant, not just for the result but for what it could mean going forward.
One teammate who clearly recognises that importance is Florian Wirtz.
Speaking via Liverpoolfc.com after the match, the German playmaker made it clear how pleased he was to see the No.9 back among the goals.
“Yes, especially as a striker it’s always important to score goals so I’m happy for him. I hope it’s the start of many [and he can] keep going like this.”
That reaction reflects what many of us have been thinking, because despite limited minutes and fitness issues, there’s always been a sense that once Isak gets one, more will follow.
The 26-year-old forward himself admitted after the game that scoring is the best way to rebuild confidence, explaining: “I’ve been battling getting back to full fitness and obviously scoring a goal is probably the best way to finding your form again.”
With that first league goal at Anfield now secured, the platform is there for him to finish the season strongly.
Wirtz didn’t just praise the striker, though, as he also highlighted a tactical point that could be key to unlocking the best version of the former Newcastle man.
“I think it’s also important for him that we feed him with balls because if he’s just there on top alone then it’s hard for him to score goals.”
That’s an observation that feels particularly relevant given how isolated our No.9 has often looked during this campaign.
The attacking midfielder added: “I think he needs the balls to score them and as you could see today, if he gets the chance he normally scores.”
That aligns with what Arne Slot said after the game about the striker’s struggles, pointing out that availability and sharpness have both played a role in a difficult debut season.
If we can consistently supply him in the right areas, then this goal against Palace might not just be a moment, but the start of something far more important heading into next season.
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We don’t play the kind of football Isak enjoyed and was successful with Newcastle.
Any striker, clinical finisher thrives from ball into the box. Or hitting teams on the break where there’s space to run into. Newcastle don’t play keep ball with a thousand passes looking for the perfect goal. They play direct, long balls, crosses from wide. High tempo.
How many times have we seen this Liverpool this season playing too slow, not enough width, passing in midfield without getting anywhere. By the time the ball is near the goal Isak won’t get any space.
Without pressing from the front that slows our game down. If Isak can stay fit, and it’s a big if.
He’ll get goals if we are more direct in the final third. And the wingers get the balls into the box. How did rush, and Fowler get most of their goals.
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