Alexander Isak could feel like a new signing for Liverpool – Shearer

Liverpool’s faltering campaign has been handed a potentially decisive lift ahead of their UEFA Champions League quarter-final against Paris Saint-Germain, with Alan Shearer suggesting that the return of Alexander Isak could transform the Reds’ attacking outlook.

Arne Slot’s side travel to the French capital for Wednesday night’s first leg under mounting pressure, with expectations tempered following a heavy 4-0 FA Cup defeat to Manchester City.

Yet the reintroduction of Isak into first-team training, and his inclusion in the travelling squad, has injected renewed belief into a team seeking to revive its European ambitions.

The Swedish forward has not featured since December 20, when he marked a standout performance with a goal in a 2-1 victory over Tottenham before sustaining a serious injury that included a broken ankle and fractured leg. His prolonged absence has been keenly felt, particularly during a period in which Liverpool have struggled for attacking fluency and consistency.

Shearer highlights potential impact

Assessing the situation, Shearer indicated that Isak’s return could have an effect akin to a major mid-season signing, given how little he has featured in recent months.

“Depending how fit Isak can be, or how good he can be in between now and the end of the season, he could be like a new player coming in, because we’ve seen hardly anything of him.

“Certainly, nowhere near the form that we’ve seen him in at Newcastle last season.

“Whether he can get up to speed that quickly remains to be seen, but it could be a great boost for Liverpool to have him back.”

His comments underline both the uncertainty surrounding Isak’s match sharpness and the optimism tied to his potential influence, particularly against a formidable PSG side.

Pressure mounts on Slot

Liverpool’s recent struggles have intensified scrutiny on Arne Slot, whose tenure faces a defining stretch in the coming weeks. The FA Cup exit has heightened the stakes, leaving the Champions League as a crucial avenue for redemption.

Shearer acknowledged the challenges confronting the Dutch manager, noting his experience in navigating high-pressure environments.

“Slot has been in the game long enough to understand the situation that they’re in, and how football works. It’s as simple as it sounds, but it’s obviously very, very difficult, but he knows what he has to do.”

Reinforcements boost squad depth

Liverpool’s squad has also been strengthened by the return of key attacking options, with Mohamed Salah, Federico Chiesa and Jeremie Frimpong all back in contention after injury layoffs.

Their availability offers Slot greater tactical flexibility as Liverpool attempt to overturn the odds against a PSG side widely regarded as favourites. With Isak’s comeback adding intrigue to the tie, the Reds will hope the striker’s presence can spark a revival at the most critical stage of their season.