Alexander Isak said his difficult start to his Liverpool career is now behind him after scoring a brace inside nine minutes to inspire his side to a 2-0 win at Ipswich on Friday.
Following his British-record £125 million ($170m) move from Newcastle United, Isak endured an injury-hit debut campaign at Anfield in which he scored only four goals in 22 appearances.
But his double at Portman Road took the 26-year-old up to three goals in three Premier League games this campaign.
“It was not easy. It was a long injury, a difficult season in general,” the Sweden striker told Sky Sports “I was thinking: I want to have a good World Cup firstly and then to start the season well, which I feel like I’ve done now.
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“That season is kind of behind me, but it wasn’t easy.”
Isak’s goals gave Andoni Iraola his first win as Liverpool boss at the third time of asking. And the former Bournemouth coach said after that he has no concerns about Isak continuing to find the net.
“Yes, with Alex, if he is fit, if he is available, if he is in good shape, I think he will produce the numbers,” Iraola told a news conference.
“My demands with Alex will not be about the goals, probably will be about other things. I will demand other things so we can play well, because if we play well we are in good positions and the goals will come.
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“He has to contribute towards the collective and knowing when everyone helps, after the goals and assists will come.”
Isak stole the headlines on Friday, but both of his strikes were assisted by Cody Gakpo, who could have left Anfield before the transfer deadline, with both Tottenham and Manchester City interested in the Netherlands international.
However, Liverpool blocked a move and Iraola was not surprised by the quality on show from the versatile winger, who produced a fine through-ball for Isak’s opener and an even better outside-of-the-foot pass for the second in the ninth minute.
“I had no doubt with Cody. He has been very good all the preseason, has started very well the season, producing numbers,” Iraola added.
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“After the two assists, he finished as a number nine to help us close the game and I think it’s good to have Cody because he can play in the three positions up top. To have him in this place, for the beginning of the season, it’s good.
“I think Cody knows how much we value him, I think there is no doubt. I rate him very highly.”
France winger Bradley Barcola started on the bench following his £123 million ($166m) transfer from Paris Saint-Germain this week, before being brought on in the 64th minute to make his Liverpool debut.
PA contributed to this report.
