It looks like Liverpool might just be getting the lift they desperately need — and it’s coming from a familiar face. After four painful defeats that had fans questioning everything from tactics to team spirit, the Reds roared back to life with a stunning 5-1 victory over Eintracht Frankfurt in midweek. And now, as they gear up for another crucial Premier League clash against Brentford on Saturday night, the big question everyone’s asking is — will Alexander Isak be fit to play?
The answer from Arne Slot has given supporters a flicker of hope.
After limping off against Frankfurt with what appeared to be a groin injury, many feared the worst. Social media buzzed with speculation that Isak could be sidelined for weeks, further deepening Liverpool’s attacking woes. But Slot’s calm update in Friday’s press conference turned that worry into cautious optimism.
“Alex (Isak) is not too bad,” Slot said with a reassuring smile. “He is a question mark for the weekend – let’s see where he is.”
And just like that, the door to a comeback creaked open.
ISAK’S INJURY SCARE — AND WHAT HIS RETURN WOULD MEAN
It’s no secret that Isak has quickly become one of Slot’s most trusted weapons up front. His pace, composure, and lethal finishing have already made him a fan favorite at Anfield. When he’s on the pitch, Liverpool’s attack just looks sharper — the link-up play flows, the pressing intensity rises, and opponents are forced to defend deeper.
But without him, that sparkle fades. The Reds’ four-game losing streak exposed just how much they rely on his ability to stretch defenses and create chaos in the box. His absence left a hole no one could truly fill, even with players like Diogo Jota and Cody Gakpo trying to shoulder the burden.
Now, with a potential return against Brentford, Liverpool fans have every reason to feel hopeful again. Brentford, known for their physical and unpredictable style, could struggle to contain a fully fit Isak — especially if he links up well with Mohamed Salah and Luis Díaz.
Slot will likely keep his cards close to his chest until the last minute, but even the possibility of Isak making the bench adds psychological fuel for the Reds.
GRAVENBERCH IN DOUBT – SLOT FACING A MIDFIELD DILEMMA
While the Isak update brought some positivity, there’s still concern elsewhere in the squad. Ryan Gravenberch, who impressed in flashes before being taken off against Frankfurt with an ankle issue, is also a major doubt.
Slot didn’t sugarcoat the situation either. Speaking alongside the Isak update, he confirmed that the Dutch midfielder is being closely assessed:
“Ryan picked up a little knock. He’s another question mark. We’ll have to check how he reacts after training before deciding.”
If Gravenberch isn’t cleared in time, Curtis Jones could be handed the perfect opportunity to remind fans and management of his worth. The young Scouser has shown flashes of brilliance this season but hasn’t had a consistent run in Slot’s preferred midfield. Saturday could be the moment he steps up — and he knows it.
Liverpool’s midfield has been under scrutiny since the summer overhaul, with new signings still adapting to the Premier League rhythm. Losing Gravenberch temporarily would be a setback, but it could also pave the way for others to rise to the occasion.
PRESSURE BUILDING AS ARSENAL WATCH CLOSELY
Liverpool’s trip to Brentford isn’t just another league fixture — it’s a must-win showdown. A victory on Saturday would put serious pressure on Arsenal, who face Crystal Palace the following day. Slot’s men know that dropping points again could widen the gap in the title race, undoing the confidence they regained from that emphatic midweek win.
Fans want to see consistency, hunger, and fight. The 5-1 demolition of Frankfurt gave a glimpse of what this Liverpool side can do when the chemistry clicks. But Brentford, unpredictable and dangerous at home, won’t roll over easily.
That’s why having someone like Isak available — even if not fully fit — could make all the difference. His mere presence changes the way defenders think, opens spaces for others, and gives Liverpool a clinical edge they’ve missed in tight games.
SLOT’S NEW ERA STILL TAKING SHAPE
Arne Slot’s Liverpool journey is still in its early stages, but it’s already packed with drama, tactical tweaks, and emotional highs and lows. He’s trying to build a team in his image — dynamic, pressing-heavy, and fearless — but that process has been hampered by injuries and inconsistency.
The recent run of poor results shook confidence, but Slot’s calm demeanor and belief in his players remain unchanged. The Frankfurt win wasn’t just a bounce-back result; it was a statement that Liverpool are far from done.
Now comes the real test — can they take that energy back into the Premier League and climb their way up the table again?
EXPECTED RETURN DATES
Alexander Isak: Saturday, 25 October vs Brentford (A) – 50/50 chance to play; likely to make the bench if cleared.
Ryan Gravenberch: Saturday, 25 October vs Brentford (A) – Under assessment; could miss out depending on fitness test results.
If both players feature, Liverpool could be in for another electric performance. If not, the challenge will fall on the shoulders of the next men up — because at this stage, every game counts.
BOTTOM LINE
Liverpool fans have been through an emotional rollercoaster this season — frustration, disappointment, relief, and now cautious hope. Arne Slot knows that winning back trust means keeping the team stable, competitive, and fearless in every match.
And if Alexander Isak does make it back on Saturday night, it could mark the spark that reignites Liverpool’s Premier League charge.
For now, Anfield waits, hoping for one thing — that their No. 9 is ready to rise again when it matters most.
