Liverpool
Liverpool’s double injury boost arrives at the perfect time – Can they end their season on a high?
Last Updated on 1 April 2026
Arne Slot confirmed that Alexander Isak will return to team training this week after more than three months out with a broken leg. Meanwhile, Mohamed Salah is edging closer to fitness after missing the defeat to Brighton.
Liverpool are hopeful that Salah will be ready in time to face Manchester City in the FA Cup quarter-final on Saturday, with the Egyptian having responded well to treatment.
With an FA Cup quarter-final, a Champions League tie against PSG and a Premier League top-five battle all ahead, the timing could not be more welcome for Slot.
Alexander Isak’s return adds a new dimension to Liverpool’s run-in
The Swede has been out since December, when he was recklessly challenged by Micky van de Ven while scoring against Tottenham. The injury required surgery and kept him sidelined for over 20 games, with Hugo Ekitike forced to carry the attacking burden in his absence.
Slot, via The Independent, welcomed the news warmly, saying: “It’s good to have him back because we all know who we signed and we’ve signed an incredible striker.” Nevertheless, the manager was quick to temper expectations, noting it is only his first session back after months out.
It is more realistic that Isak’s first competitive appearance will come in the Champions League quarter-final against PSG next Wednesday, rather than Saturday’s FA Cup clash. Even from the bench, however, his availability gives Liverpool a weapon they have sorely missed.
Arne Slot also pays tribute to Salah as Liverpool’s legend eyes a fairytale finale
The Salah news carries extra emotional weight given the backdrop. Despite confirming his departure at the end of the season, Salah remains focused on helping Liverpool finish the campaign strongly, with Slot praising his lasting impact and insisting he’ll leave as a legend.
Slot hinted at Salah’s powers of recovery ahead of the Brighton game, saying: “We are hoping that he can recover faster than other players might in similar situations because he takes such good care of his body. History has shown he can be back earlier than some others.”
Salah’s form has also been encouraging, registering five goals and five assists in his 14 appearances in 2026 alone, a timely upturn as he bids to sign off at Anfield with silverware. A Wembley FA Cup final would be some way to say goodbye.
Add the good news about Isak’s return and the Reds could truly end their poor campaign on a high note.