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Spanish Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola said that Alexander Isak is experiencing “a very good position” at a time when the Swedish striker is seeking to move past his disappointing debut season at Anfield.
Isak suffered from injuries and a drop in form following his controversial 125 million pound (168 million US dollar) move from Newcastle 12 months ago.
The 26-year-old Swedish striker scored just four goals in all competitions last season, but has already scored three goals in four matches this season.
Iraola expressed admiration for Isak's adaptation to his tactical approach since the Spanish coach arrived from Bournemouth, succeeding the sacked Dutchman Arne Slot during the summer transfer window.
Iraola told reporters last Friday: “I think he is performing well. I am happy with the progress he is making from one match to the next.”
He added: “Physically, he is in a very good place. I think he is moving with confidence, and we know he is a technically exceptional player.”
He continued “He understands better what we need from him in the central striker position.”
Isak has started all four matches the team has played so far this season, logging 332 minutes, in stark contrast to last season when he struggled with physical issues, including a broken ankle and fibula in December.
Isak agrees with Iraola that he is finally starting to feel comfortable at Anfield.
Isak told Liverpool's website: “First of all, it's great that the season is starting again, as it's natural to miss the atmosphere of football when you are away from it.”
He added: “I feel good after pre-season as well as with the start of the season, and I managed to score a few goals. It's just about maintaining this rhythm.”
He continued: “I feel good, I feel I am in a good place. And with the team too, we are improving more and more. We want to keep this momentum going.”
Isak regaining his form is crucial to Liverpool's hopes of improving their results after finishing a disappointing fifth in the Premier League last season.
After remaining unbeaten in their first four matches across all competitions, Liverpool prepare to face Fulham at Anfield on Saturday.
Iraola hopes that Isak will be able to form a strong partnership with French forward Bradley Barcola, who recently joined from Paris Saint-Germain.
Barcola is expected to be available to play, after coming off in the second half of his team's victory over Spain's Atletico Madrid in the Champions League on Wednesday.
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