Alexander Isak Shines Through Sweden's Nightmare Performance, Delivering Bold Statement to Liverpool

Liverpool forward Alexander Isak completed his first complete 90-minute match of the campaign on Friday, yet faced jeers alongside his Swedish colleagues following a disappointing display that saw him manage only 31 ball touches during a 2-0 loss to Switzerland.

The £125 million ($166.7 million) summer acquisition has been gradually introduced this season after missing Newcastle United's pre-season preparations while pursuing his move to Anfield.

Isak has featured in six matches for Liverpool so far but has accumulated just over 300 minutes of playing time, with head coach Arne Slot advising supporters to remain patient as the striker regains peak condition.

Sweden's manager Jon Dahl Tomasson believed Isak was prepared to start his nation's latest World Cup qualifying fixture, however the plan backfired as Switzerland dominated with strikes from Granit Xhaka via penalty and young talent Johan Manzambi.

Throughout his full match appearance, Isak registered only one attempt—which missed the target—as Sweden dropped to last place in their World Cup qualifying group with merely one point from three matches. His 31 touches represented the fewest among any outfield player who finished the contest.

Isak wasn't alone in facing Sweden's disappointment. Arsenal forward Viktor Gyökeres, who partnered him for the entire match, managed just two wayward shots and barely exceeded Isak's touch count with 33.

Isak: I'm Ready to Play 90 Minutes for Liverpool

Isak's obstacle has been reaching the fitness level needed for complete matches. Following a suboptimal pre-season, his Liverpool appearances have been sporadic, preventing him from establishing any consistent form.

Before Sweden's loss, Isak spoke to media and provided a positive update for Slot and Liverpool supporters.

"I believe I'm prepared," he declared. "We'll approach it match by match. I am ready for 90 minutes when required."

The concerning aspect for Liverpool is that with mounting pressure on Sweden manager Tomasson, Isak might need another full 90 minutes in Monday's clash with Kosovo. This would reduce the 26-year-old's recovery period, when Liverpool supporters would prefer seeing him complete the distance against arch-rivals Manchester United when Premier League action resumes on Sunday Oct. 19.