Liverpool without Isak and Gakpo for Manchester City clash as Jacquet returns

Liverpool will be without Alexander Isak and Cody Gakpo for Sunday’s Premier League meeting with Manchester City, although Jeremy Jacquet has been declared fit and available for selection.

Head coach Andoni Iraola confirmed the news before the fixture at Anfield, saying Isak is recovering from a thigh injury while Gakpo has an ankle problem.

“Alex Isak and Gakpo won’t play. They are not ready, unfortunately for us,” Iraola said. “You always hope the doctor doesn’t call you, but we have been unlucky.”

Iraola does not expect either player to face a lengthy absence. Gakpo is experiencing pain from an ankle injury sustained in a challenge, while Isak continues his recovery from the thigh problem.

“They don’t look like long-term injuries, but they are not ready for Sunday,” Iraola added.

With Liverpool’s attacking options reduced, Lewis Koumas could be asked to play as the central striker. Iraola backed the youngster but said the team could also use players accustomed to operating in wider positions.

Bradley Barcola is one potential alternative after featuring across the forward line. Federico Chiesa could also come back into contention, although he has not played during the current run of matches. Liverpool are additionally waiting for Hugo Ekitike to become available.

“Even before we don’t have Hugo Ekitike, who I am looking forward to having available,” Iraola said. “As a number nine, we only have Koumas right now. We have some options: wingers who have played up front.”

Jacquet, by contrast, has overcome the fitness concern that had surrounded him and is expected to be involved.

“He is fit and ready to go. He will be fine; we need to train tomorrow,” Iraola confirmed.

Liverpool have won four of their past five matches in all competitions. Their most recent game was a 1-0 victory against Bournemouth before the international break.

Manchester City travel to Anfield as Premier League leaders after winning every league match so far. Iraola described the fixture as a significant test but said it would give Liverpool the chance to assess themselves against the division’s leading side.

“It’s an exciting game, at home at Anfield against league leaders. They’ve won all their games. They will go for it, so will we,” he said.

“We have to be ready and help our supporters. I hope we are at the level.”

Despite the quality of the opposition, Iraola played down the importance of the result in the context of the title race, stressing that the campaign remains at an early stage.

“It’s still very early, whatever happens on Sunday. Just five games,” he said.

Liverpool’s preparations have also been complicated by the injury setbacks, a demanding schedule and a Champions League match immediately after the City game. Iraola said the limited time available to work with the squad meant they had to respond quickly to changing circumstances.

“We have to adapt to injuries. Alex, and then Cody, and now this is City, then Champions League. The run of games means we have to get used to these things,” he said.