Alexander Isak gesture speaks volumes as Liverpool new boy left frustrated

Liverpool's new signing, Alexander Isak, experienced a frustrating international break. After spending the summer training solo due to forcing a move away from Newcastle, Isak, who was signed by the Premier League champions for a whopping £125million, finally made his season debut.

The former Real Sociedad striker was selected by Sweden for their World Cup qualifying matches against Slovenia and Kosovo. Although he didn't play in the 2-2 draw with Slovenia, Swedish manager Jon Dahl Tomasson brought Isak off the bench in the match against Kosovo.

He had a fairly promising 20-minute stint, managing two shots on target before receiving a yellow card. Given that he missed a proper pre-season schedule, it might take some time for him to regain his sharpness and lethal finishing at Anfield.

However, one of his actions during the Kosovo game gave Liverpool supporters a glimpse of what they can expect from the forward. As Kosovo strived to maintain their lead, goalkeeper Arijanet Muric held onto the ball to waste time.

Isak turned to the referee and began counting to eight with his fingers, indicating that the Sassuolo keeper had held onto the ball for too long. While it didn't change the outcome of the game, Isak's frustrated and cheeky move demonstrated that he's more than capable of showing passion when his team needs it most.

On another day, his two saved chances may have gone in and rescued Sweden from their predicament at the Pristina City Stadium.

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Nevertheless, he could not prevent his nation from suffering a damaging 2-0 away defeat.

He will be eager to return to Merseyside and begin getting acquainted with his new teammates. Isak could potentially make his debut when the Reds travel to Burnley on Sunday, but it may prove too early for the Swede.

Liverpool boss Arne Slot will also be keen to avoid rushing him back into action, particularly with £79m summer acquisition Hugo Ekitike spearheading the attack so impressively, whilst Cody Gakpo has also chipped in with a goal and two assists in three fixtures.

Slot may be hoping to utilise Isak in the Champions League the following Wednesday, when Atletico Madrid travel to Anfield.

Last campaign, he registered 23 goals and six assists in 34 league outings for Newcastle.

Eddie Howe's outfit were determined to retain him, but they had little option but to sell him on transfer deadline day, with Isak demanding his departure.

Following his arrival at Liverpool, Isak said: "I've had a tricky summer where I haven't played any games. I've had restricted training, so I think that's one to judge and to analyse where I am at and how much I am ready to give. But I certainly want to play as soon as possible."