Alexander Isak took to the field for the first time during the international break, but a cheeky gesture from Liverpool's £125million man showed his new fans what to expect
The international break proved to be a frustrating period for new Liverpool forward Alexander Isak. After a summer training alone while banished by Newcastle United, Isak, who joined the Premier League champions for £125million, got onto the pitch for the first time this season.
The ex-Real Sociedad forward was called up by Sweden for their World Cup qualifying clashes against Slovenia and Kosovo. While he did not feature in the 2-2 draw against the former, Sweden boss Jon Dahl Tomasson brought Isak on from the bench against the latter.
He enjoyed a relatively bright 20 minutes, having two shots on target before earning a booking. Having missed out on a proper pre-season schedule, it may take a while for him to find his sharpness and cutting edge at Anfield.
However, one of his gestures against Kosovo provided Liverpool fans with an insight into what to expect from the striker. As Kosovo did their best to hold onto their lead, goalkeeper Arijanet Muric got his hands on the ball and kept hold of it to run the clock down.
Isak stared at the referee and started counting to eight with his fingers, telling the official the Sassuolo shot-stopper had kept hold of the ball for too long. It did not have an effect on matters, but Isak's cheeky gesture showed he is more than capable of getting himself fired up when his team needs it most.
On another day, his two chances which were saved may have gone in and dug Sweden out of their hole at the Pristina City Stadium. However, he could not prevent his country from slipping to a costly 2-0 away victory.
He will be raring to return to Merseyside and start getting to know his new team-mates. Isak could potentially make his first appearance when the Reds travel to Burnley on Sunday, but it may come too soon for the Swede.
Liverpool boss Arne Slot will also be determined to not rush him back into action, particularly with £79m summer signing Hugo Ekitike leading the line so impressively, while Cody Gakpo has also contributed a goal and two assists in three Premier League matches.
Slot may be hoping to use Isak in the Champions League the following Wednesday, when Atletico Madrid come to visit. Last season, he contributed 23 goals and six assists in 34 Premier League appearances for the Magpies, who qualified for the Champions League.
Eddie Howe's side wanted to hold onto him, but they had no choice but to part with him on transfer deadline day, with Isak insisting he wanted to exit.
After arriving at Liverpool, Isak said: "I've had a tricky summer where I haven’t played any games. I've had restricted training, so I think that’s one to judge and to analyse where I am at and how much I am ready to give. But I certainly want to play as soon as possible."
Isak's arrival not only made him Liverpool's record transfer, he also became the most expensive player in Premier League history. All eyes will surely be on Turf Moor to see if he does get his debut from Slot.