Rush backs Alexander Isak to thrive next season after injury setback

Liverpool legend Ian Rush has expressed strong confidence in Alexander Isak, insisting the striker is poised to make a significant impact next season following his recovery from a serious injury.

Isak recently returned to action after suffering a double leg fracture before Christmas, a setback that disrupted his momentum during a crucial phase of the campaign.

Despite the lengthy absence, Rush believes the Swedish forward will benefit from a full pre-season, which he considers essential to unlocking his full potential in Liverpool’s attacking setup.

“Well, I think he’s going to be more ready for next season,” Rush told talkSPORT.

The former Liverpool striker pointed to the challenges players face when they miss pre-season preparations, noting that regaining rhythm during the season can be difficult.

In his view, Isak’s struggles since returning are understandable, given the physical and tactical demands of top-level football after a long layoff.

“I think now, because as you know, once you miss pre-season, you’re playing catch-up all the time.”

Rush also underlined the importance of having a recognised central striker, suggesting Liverpool have lacked a traditional focal point in attack during periods of the current campaign. He sees Isak as the solution to that issue, describing him as a natural fit for the role.

“So I’m glad he is back, because he’s probably our proper number nine; we haven’t had a proper number nine. Isak is a number nine, and I think maybe we’ve missed a number nine.”

Reflecting on Liverpool’s broader campaign, Rush acknowledged inconsistencies in performance following last season’s title-winning success. He suggested that heightened expectations and increased competition have made the current season more challenging for the club.

“It’s been indifferent, I think last year we surprised teams, we won the league, we were surprised we won the league, but I think this year people want to beat us cos we won the league, so I think with injuries as well, it has been indifferent, but there’s still a lot to play for.”