Arne Slot handed timely reminder by striker as Alexander Isak deal 'agreed'

Only a select few Academy prospects accompanied the Liverpool first team on its Far East tour this month. However, those who remained at home have been making their presence felt under Arne Slot's watchful eye.

Jayden Danns, the striker who found the back of the net last season under the Dutchman's guidance, is one such player. His season was cut short due to a back issue that thwarted a potential loan move to then-Championship side Sunderland.

Danns has since continued his recovery at Kirkby and marked his return to action for the first time since January by scoring a penalty in the under-21's 3-1 friendly victory over French outfit Lens on Tuesday.

Kaide Gordon also got on the scoresheet, adding to his brace from the previous week's 8-0 thrashing of Celtic. The 20-year-old winger had disappointing loan stints in the Championship with Norwich City and Portsmouth last season and will be seeking more first-team opportunities this term.

Keyrol Figueroa rounded off the scoring for Rob Page's side, having also scored against Celtic.

Player-coach Jay Spearing commented on the match: "It was a competitive game throughout and there were valuable minutes for everyone at this stage of pre-season. It was also great to see Jayden Danns back on the pitch.

"We've got a couple more tests to come now in the coming weeks which we're looking forward to."

Danns' return comes at an interesting time for Liverpool. Having already signed Hugo Ekitike, a deal for Alexander Isak could still be in the pipeline if Newcastle can be convinced to let go of its prize asset.

The Reds may have already taken its first steps toward signing the Sweden international, with reports claiming personal terms have already been agreed.

Danns though will be hoping he can force himself back into the first-team picture, having looked set to be on that path after his breakthrough under Jurgen Klopp.

Elsewhere, Liverpool U18s, who secured a 1-1 draw with West Ham United in a friendly at St George's Park on Saturday, continued their build-up to the new season with a 4-1 loss against Blackpool at the Academy on Wednesday. Ellis Hickman netted the solitary goal for the Reds.

* An AI tool was used to add an extra layer to the editing process for this story. You can read the original story in the Liverpool ECHO by clicking here.

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