NewsAlexander Isak: We want to be competing across all fronts
Alexander Isak is eager to keep playing his part in Liverpool competing across all fronts after opening his goalscoring account for the club.
The Sweden international bagged his first goal in the red shirt during Tuesday night’s Carabao Cup victory over Southampton at Anfield.
A 2-1 win to kick off their League Cup campaign added to a 100 per cent record across the Premier League and Champions League for Arne Slot’s men so far this season.
“I think especially when you play for a club like Liverpool, you’ve got to compete on all fronts,” Isak told Liverpoolfc.com post-match.
“That’s the main goal: to be competitive in all competitions, going out to every game wanting to win.”
Isak’s finish put Liverpool 1-0 up against Saints just a few minutes prior to half-time and his withdrawal, as he continues to build up match sharpness following his arrival from Newcastle United.
A typically confident first-time stroke past the goalkeeper, he was assisted by impactful play by Federico Chiesa, who closed down in the box, won the ball and squared it to the No.9.
He said: “All of the work was really done by Fede, a high-pressure regain and from that moment I was trying to be in the right place, which I was and I just tucked it away.”
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Watch on YouTubeThe Reds had to rally late on, however, with Shea Charles equalising for Southampton - who had earlier also struck the crossbar - with 14 minutes left to play.
Once again this season, they found a way to respond, this time courtesy of Chiesa bringing down Andy Robertson’s pass and presenting Hugo Ekitike with a tap-in on 85.
“It has kind of been frustrating seeing it [as an opponent] from the other side!” said Isak of Liverpool’s resilience and persistence.
“It’s amazing to be a part of it. Obviously we want to work on our performances and play better throughout the parts of the game but ultimately it’s all about winning. That’s the main goal and then we can always work on details in the game.”
The 45-minute outing was Isak’s second start and third appearance overall for Liverpool.
Slot anticipates the forward to be approaching his best fitness levels after the October international break as he essentially undertakes a delayed personal pre-season.
“Obviously my situation was a bit special so I had to do some extra work, which is completely normal,” said Isak. “I’m happy to do any work that will get me in better shape. It’s good.
“I’m working hard to be in my best shape and then it’s up to the coach [for the trip to Crystal Palace on Saturday].”