Isak fires Liverpool to victory as two-goal display answers early-season doubts

Alexander Isak scored twice in nine minutes to put his difficult first season at Liverpool behind him and secure a 2-0 Premier League victory over Ipswich at Portman Road on Friday.

The Sweden international, 26, struck both goals to give Liverpool their win and take his tally to three in three league appearances this season. His performance came after a challenging debut campaign at the club, during which injuries restricted him to just four goals in 22 appearances.

Isak joined Liverpool from Newcastle United for £125m, a record transfer fee at the time. However, his first season was disrupted by injury and failed to produce the scoring return expected after such a high-profile move.

The forward said the difficulties of that campaign had been demanding, but he was pleased with the way he had responded at the start of the new season.

“It wasn’t easy. It was a long injury, and it was a difficult season overall,” Isak told Sky Sports.

“I was thinking: first I want to have a good World Cup, then start the season well, which I feel I have done now.”

He added: “This season is kind of behind me now, but it wasn’t easy.”

Isak’s two goals also gave Andoni Iraola his first victory as Liverpool manager at the third attempt. The former Bournemouth boss has no concerns about whether the striker can maintain his scoring form.

The result marked a significant change in mood for Isak after a campaign in which his involvement was limited and his goal return remained modest. His double at Portman Road instead provided an immediate contribution that helped Liverpool collect all three points.

Although the forward had already scored once in the Premier League this season, his two-goal performance against Ipswich lifted his league total to three goals from three matches. It also ensured Liverpool’s latest fixture was settled by the striker who had endured such a frustrating opening season following his move from Newcastle United.

For Iraola, the victory was his first in charge of Liverpool after two previous attempts. Isak’s finishing proved decisive, with the Sweden international taking advantage of the opportunity to make a strong early impression in the campaign.

The manager’s confidence in the striker’s ability to continue scoring contrasts with the difficult circumstances that affected Isak last season. After overcoming his long injury and beginning the new campaign with three goals in as many league games, Isak now has the chance to build on the start he wanted.

His comments suggest the previous season remains a difficult period, but one he believes is now behind him. At Portman Road, the forward’s rapid double gave Liverpool a 2-0 win and offered a clear sign that he has moved beyond those troubles.