10 hours ago
3
Alexander Isak and his international teammates have an uphill battle on their hands to reach the World Cup next year after Sweden fell to a 2-0 defeat by Switzerland in qualfying on Friday.
The loss leaves Sweden with one point from three games, with three games remaining, starting with a home game against Kosovo on Monday. Automatic qualification is already virtually out of reach, but a win against Kosovo would put Sweden firmly in contention for a play-off spot.
Liverpool star Isak's start against the Swiss was his first in World Cup qualifying after he was restricted to a bit-part role during the September internationals due to a lack of match fitness.
The 26-year-old cut a frustrated figure at times, particularly after he squared the ball to create an apparent tap-in for Lucas Bergvall, only for the Tottenham youngster to spurn the chance.
Isak also hit the post during the game, and his attacking threat led to positive reviews of his performance from Swedish journalists
Expressen said that Isaw was "quick in the flesh – and in the head," while Fotboll Skanlen referenced Isak's almost-assist for Bergvall, saying he "ran half the length of the field before putting a chance on a plate for Lucas Bergvall."
Meanwhile, Isak said ahead of the game that he has not spoken to Eddie Howe since leaving Newcastle, and made it clear he wants to put the summer's transfer saga behind him.
Isak went on strike at his old club during the final few weeks of the transfer window as he desperately tried to force through his move to Liverpool.
Isak ultimately got his wish on deadline day as Liverpool paid a Premier League-record fee to sign him from the Magpies, and Isak was asked about the saga ahead of Sweden's World Cup qualifier against Switzerland.
"It's nothing I want to dwell on now," Isak said in a press conference. "It doesn't benefit anyone, neither me nor Newcastle so let it be." Asked whether he had spoken to former boss Howe since leaving his old club, Isak simply responded: "No."
Isak is still getting up to speed for his new club having not played any games in pre-season, but he is enjoying his start to life with his new club.
"I'm working hard to push myself and play my game," Isak said. "Things have been a bit tougher for us. I believe that as the team improves and things start to flow better, it will also go better for me.
"I've been really happy so far. A city where the team has a very good relationship with the fans which is important. It's been nice so far."
English (US) ·