Jon Dahl Tomsson benches Alexander Isak in Sweden's opener against Slovenia (Credits: Imago Images)
Alexander Isak made history as Liverpool paid £125m to secure the Swede’s services on deadline day. It was after a long, drawn-out saga that Isak would see himself playing at Anfield in a Reds shirt.
The Swedish striker did everything in his power this summer to secure a move South. Liverpool, too, were desperate for frontline reinforcements following major departures through the summer.
Diogo Jota found himself being part of a tragic accident as the former Liverpool star died in a car crash in Spain alongside his brother Andre Silva.
Both Darwin Núñez and Luis Díaz found new homes at the Allianz Arena and the Kingdom Arena, respectively. Hugo Ekitike was later signed when other strikers seemed out of reach.
Liverpool made Hugo the most expensive French striker in history as they signed him from Eintracht Frankfurt for a fee of £69m with add-ons that might take the deal up to £79m.
Alexander Isak wasn’t signed until deadline day, as Newcastle United weren’t keen on letting their prized gem leave. The Swede then took to social media, making claims of certain ‘promises’ not being met.
He was clearly unhappy with the club and showed no sporting involvement throughout the saga.
Quiz: Can you name the team Liverpool sold these players to?
Alexander Isak benched against Slovenia in Sweden’s first World Cup qualifier
Not surprisingly, Alexander Isak was benched against Slovenia as Blågult played their first FIFA World Cup qualifier match of the international break.
After not having played through pre-season, Isak willingly didn’t join the Toons’ first team even after the start of the Premier League.
He was ordered to train on his own as the player was trying to force a move away from Tyneside. Even after his move, the Swedish striker could only manage to train three times with the national team.
“He had only done three training sessions with the team. No pre-season with the team and of course no playing time. The risk is probably a bit too great to use him today”, said gaffer John Dahl Tomasson.
The Blue and Yellow face Kosovo on the 8th of September, and Tomasson was naturally quizzed regarding Isak’s status for the upcoming fixture.
Although Sweden faced a draw against Slovenia, they will be looking forward to securing an easy take-home game against Kosovo. “Hopefully, hopefully. As a game-changer”, Tomasson told the media.
Arne Slot will also be in the hopes that the national team treats Isak well following a big break from competitive football. He wouldn’t want the British record breaker in the hospital when he comes back to Anfield from the international break.
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