Coaching Insights on Alexander Isak
In a recent revelation, Jon Dahl Tomasson, the coach of the Swedish national team, shared that Alexander Isak, the high-profile forward who recently transferred to Liverpool, was not utilized during Friday’s match against Slovenia due to concerns over his readiness. Isak, who is still acclimatizing after a significant move from Newcastle United—where he did not participate in preseason training or the initial matches of the Premier League season—was deemed a potential liability for this particular fixture.
Record Transfer and Match Performance
The striker, having been acquired for a record British deal worth £125 million (approximately $170 million), is part of Sweden’s squad for their World Cup qualifying campaign, but he remained an unused substitute during the 2-2 draw against Slovenia.
“He had only completed three training sessions with the team,” Tomasson stated during a post-match interview with Viaplay, emphasizing that Isak lacked both the preseason experience and sufficient match play. “The risk was probably a bit too great to use him today.”
Looking Ahead
Looking forward to the upcoming qualifier against Kosovo, Tomasson expressed optimism regarding Isak’s possible participation, stating,
“Hopefully, hopefully. As a game-changer.”
On a positive note, during the match against Slovenia, Anthony Elanga, another new addition to Newcastle, managed to score for Sweden, while Manchester United’s Benjamin Sesko contributed with an assist for the home side.
