Gakpo And Isak Fitness Doubts Leave Iraola With Selection Headaches Before He Needs Them

Just when Liverpool supporters thought the international break injury count was settling, along comes another twist. The Daily Star is reporting fresh concern around both Cody Gakpo and Alexander Isak, two of the more important pieces in Andoni Iraola’s attack, after a difficult few days away with their countries.

Gakpo’s Ankle Knock Looks The More Pressing Issue

Of the two situations, Gakpo’s appears the more immediate worry. The Netherlands forward was forced off early against Serbia after appearing to twist his ankle following a strong challenge from Sasa Lukic. He tried to play on for a short spell before signalling that he could not continue, which is rarely a good sign and leaves Liverpool’s medical staff with another situation to assess before domestic football resumes.

A Forward Line That Cannot Afford Gaps

The timing stings because Gakpo has been one of the pleasant surprises of Iraola’s early tenure. Two goals and four assists in all competitions is a solid return, and his creativity down the left has given Liverpool a different way to break teams down. If his issue turns out to be significant, the head coach may have to lean on less experienced options in wide areas at exactly the point in the season when consistency matters most.

Isak’s Situation Is Calmer, But Still Worth Watching

Isak’s own withdrawal has been described by the club as a minor issue, which is obviously the preferred outcome, but any interruption to his rhythm deserves attention given how central he has become to the way this Liverpool side plays. His movement and link-up with runners beyond him has given the attack a sharper edge this season, and even a short spell out could disrupt some of that understanding just as the fixtures start piling up.

Our Take

There is no need to panic yet, but Liverpool’s depth in attacking areas is about to be tested regardless of how mild these issues turn out to be. The sensible move is patience. Rushing either player back for the sake of one fixture, with a heavyweight test against Manchester City on the horizon, would be a false economy if it risks turning a short absence into a longer one. For now this is a waiting game, and supporters will be watching the club’s updates closely between now and the weekend.