Liverpool exclude £125m Isak from Burnley squad amid fitness concerns

Liverpool's new signing Alexander Isak has not been included in the squad for their upcoming match against Burnley due to fitness concerns after joining for a British-record £125 million transfer from Newcastle United. Isak missed preseason and has only played limited minutes for Sweden recently, leading Liverpool manager Arne Slot to emphasize a gradual integration for the long-term fitness of the striker. Despite limited game time so far, Liverpool coaching staff are reportedly delighted with Isak's sharpness and potential fit within the team. Meanwhile, former player Joleon Lescott expressed confidence that Liverpool do not need Isak's goals to win the Premier League, as Mohamed Salah remains the team's key and consistently available goal scorer. Lescott suggested Isak will be rotated, unlike Salah, and that managing Isak's fitness will be crucial to avoid injury. Liverpool currently remain unbeaten in the league, with Hugo Ekitike leading the line in Isak's absence.