'I've been in Alexander Isak's shoes - he needs one thing from Liverpool supporters'

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The Reds forward is closing in on a return to full fitness after a nearly four-month injury absence. But one former striker has said fans may need to temper their expectation

Michael Owen has called for Liverpool fans to show Alexander Isak patience ahead of his return form injury(Image: Getty Images)

Michael Owen has called on Liverpool fans not to “expect miracles” from Alexander Isak when he returns from injury next month, and warned Reds they may not see the best from the club’s record signing until next season.

Arne Slot confirmed last week that Isak is in line to play some part in the Champions League double header against Paris Saint-Germain on April 8 and 14, but said he does not expect him to feature next week at Manchester City, the first match back after the international break.

Isak has not featured since December due to the broken leg he suffered following Micky van de Ven’s robust challenge in the win over Tottenham. The former Newcastle man, who was spotted running at the AXA Training Centre last week, has endured a difficult first campaign at Anfield due to various fitness problems.

Given his record transfer fee and previous scoring exploits for the Magpies, fans are eagerly anticipating his return just as the season reaches its crucial juncture, but Owen has called for a sense of realism.

“Please don’t expect miracles immediately,” the former striker told Liverpool.com via online casino comparison site Casino.org.

“From experience, coming back from a long injury is tough; to be conditioned and ready to play at the pace of the Premier League and Champions League is difficult.

Isak was seen running at the AXA Training Centre last week(Image: PA)

“Isak was playing really well before the injury and his last touch was a goal for Liverpool away at Spurs where he looked really sharp.

“I am confident he will come back strong, but it does take time; you can pick up niggling injuries during your return. So it’s so important that he is well manged as he is such a huge talent.

“I hope he comes back and scores goals, which I have no doubt he is capable of, but don’t put too much pressure as the long lay out can be difficult.

Isak suffered a broken leg in December(Image: Alex Pantling/Getty Images)

“What you want is a good comeback from Isak between now and the end of the season and for him to be raring to go at the start of next season.”

Isak managed just three goals in 16 appearances this campaign.

His absence was compounded by an injury to Hugo Ekitike on Saturday, meaning the Reds played almost the entire game against Brighton without a no.9.

The Swedish international’s injury meant he was omitted by Graham Potter for March’s World Cup play-offs.