Ian Rush makes Alexander Isak and Hugo Ekitike prediction ahead of Liverpool injury return

Alexander Isak has been sidelined with a broken leg since December, but Liverpool legend Ian Rush believes the Reds' summer signing from Newcastle will soon justify his club-record price tag

Alexander Isak and Hugo Ekitike haven't had many opportunities to play together at Liverpool(Image: Getty Images)

Ian Rush is eagerly awaiting Alexander Isak's return from injury, predicting that Liverpool's record signing will soon live up to his hefty price tag. Since joining the Reds for £125 million ($165M) from Newcastle United in the summer, Isak has had a challenging start to his time on Merseyside.

The 26-year-old netted just three goals before breaking his leg whilst scoring for Liverpool against Tottenham back in December. That goal at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium offered glimpses of the deadly form that led the Reds to aggressively pursue the Swedish international during the summer.

In his press conference on Friday, head coach Arne Slot provided an update on Isak's recovery, anticipating the No. 9 to regain full fitness early next month.

And Isak has the support of the club's all-time top scorer.

In an interview with the Liverpool Echo, Rush expressed his belief that it's only a matter of time before the former Newcastle striker displays the kind of form that made him one of Europe's most feared forwards.

The 64-year-old stated: "You don't see proper No.9s now, do you? You've got [Erling] Haaland, [Harry] Kane and you've got Isak. I can't wait for him to get back because he's in my sort of position. I like to see a proper No.9 and hopefully we'll see him soon."

Alexander Isak is expected to return from injury at the start of April(Image: Getty Images)

Whilst Isak has experienced an inconsistent spell in a red shirt thus far, his fellow summer arrival Hugo Ekitike has been a sensation and has quickly won over the supporters. The French forward is Liverpool's top scorer this campaign, sparking discussion about whether he and Isak can operate together in the same attacking line.

Nevertheless, Rush is convinced the combination will function effectively, with Ekitike also capable of making an impact from the left flank. He said: "With Isak it was a bit difficult because he missed pre-season. He's a No.9.

"All you have to do to the manager is show them what you can do on the pitch and they can't leave you out. If they're both performing, then they can both start in the same side."

Rush was speaking at the Liverpool FC official club store in Liverpool ONE. The legend was present as part of a surprise appearance to meet supporters purchasing the 1995/96 away kit, which has been re-released as part of Adidas' Bringback collection.

The jersey holds particular significance for Rush as it was the last one he wore as a Liverpool player in the 1996 FA Cup final.

He said: "Unfortunately, we lost that game, but there's still many good memories. It's always sad when you do leave Liverpool. I left them in good hands: Robbie Fowler, Stan Collymore, Steve McManaman. We had some great players and I knew they'd go on to better things."

Rush is delighted to resume his duties as club ambassador and engaging with supporters following a health emergency last year. The Welsh legend contracted a severe strain of influenza and collapsed at his residence before being rushed to hospital.

Ian Rush has returned to his duties as a Liverpool ambassador after his health scare(Image: Getty Images)

However, Rush battled back to achieve a complete recovery and expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support he received throughout a challenging period.

He added: "The amount of support I had was incredible. I was in hospital for six days. You don't get any younger and I managed to come out. The NHS were absolutely fantastic and I've decided I want to try and enjoy myself now. Now that I've got a second chance really.

"The support I had from all the fans was immense and is something that I will hold with me until I do pass away. It brings me even closer to the Liverpool fans as well.

"The younger generation when you see them supporting Liverpool. It's amazing that they still remember my name."