Isak ready for team training return after injury layoff in boost for Liverpool, Sweden

Liverpool striker Alexander Isak is poised to rejoin training with the team this week after a prolonged absence due to a broken leg, manager Arne Slot confirmed, with his return also a major boost for Sweden in the run-up to the World Cup.

The 26-year-old required surgery after breaking his leg in December while scoring Liverpool's opening goal in a 2-1 win over Tottenham Hotspur.

With Sweden sealing their spot at the World Cup with a playoff win over Poland on Tuesday, Slot said things were looking up for Isak.

"I think Alex is in a really good place because Sweden qualified for the World Cup yesterday evening and apart from that he's going to train with the group again for the first time tomorrow," Slot told club media on Wednesday.

"Of course, it's only his first session, after three or four months (out), with the team, but it's good to have him back because we all know who we signed and we've signed an incredible striker.

"So to have him again in a team that's usually generating quite a lot chances – and maybe not immediately from the first moment that he can start – but to have him back for the last two months is, I think, very helpful for us."

Liverpool, who are fifth in the Premier League, next host Fulham on Saturday.

The World Cup runs from June 11 to July 19 in North America, with Sweden in Group F with the Netherlands, Japan, and Tunisia.