‘Unstoppable’ – Wayne Rooney makes Liverpool claim amid Alexander Isak saga
Wayne Rooney has made a bold statement about how Liverpool will fare this season, on one key condition.
Liverpool were defeated on penalties in the Community Shield against Crystal Palace in the first competitive match of the season giving fans a first glimpse of new signings.
Forward Mo Salah suffered a rare off day against Crystal Palace, though summer additions Jeremie Frimpong and Hugo Ekitike scored their first goals for the club.
The Reds begin their Premier League campaign at home to Bournemouth, hoping to retain the title they won last season.
Isak would make Liverpool “Unstoppable”
Alexander Isak wants to leave Newcastle this summer, and former Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney, speaking to BBC Sport [14 August], believes the 25-year-old would make Liverpool “unstoppable.”
Rooney said: “Good players fit in. With Isak he has shown what a top player he is, and I already have Liverpool as favourites to win the title this year but if he comes in then I think they are going to be unstoppable.”
Newcastle have claimed though that Isak is not for sale, and have so far rejected a bid from Liverpool for the Swedish international.
Isak has not partaken in pre-season for Newcastle and is not making himself available for selection for Eddie Howe.
The Toon are only likely to sell once a replacement has been sourced, but so far Howe has had no lucky in bringing a striker to St James’ Park.
Slot problem if Isak arrives
Slot is already building a lethal forward line and adding Isak to his options would make Liverpool the most threatening attacking side in the Premier League.
Liverpool have the funds ready to bring Isak to Liverpool, but Newcastle’s firm stance is currently making a deal impossible.
Isak was the Toon’s top goal scorer last season and showed he has multiple weapons in his armoury when it comes to putting the ball in the back of the net.
| Apperances | 42 |
| Goals | 27 |
| Assists | 6 |
Ekitike is unproven in the Premier League and with Darwin Nunez gone, Slot may feel he needs a reliable number nine who can hit the ground running.
Isak would fit the bill, though leaving Ekitike out of the team may not go down well with the Frenchman.
Slot will welcome the dilemma though should a breakthrough be made with Isak as the Dutchman also wants to progress in the Champions League alongside retaining the Premier League title.
The Reds start at home to Bournemouth, a match which should get Slot’s side off to a perfect start.