Liverpool legend Dean Saunders believes the Reds should not rely solely on Alexander Isak during the 2026/27 season. While the Swedish striker remains one of the Premier League’s most dangerous forwards, concerns over his injury history have prompted calls for Liverpool to strengthen their attacking depth before the summer transfer window closes.
Saunders argues that Liverpool’s ambitions of winning the Premier League and competing in Europe require more than one elite striker. He also believes the club already has an exciting internal solution, with academy graduate Lewis Koumas showing signs that he could become a valuable backup option.
With a demanding campaign ahead, Liverpool face an important decision: invest in another proven striker or place greater trust in one of their brightest young talents.
Alexander Isak Can Be Liverpool’s Difference-Maker
Liverpool made a major statement by signing Alexander Isak for a reported £125 million, making him one of the club’s biggest-ever investments.
Expectations were naturally high after his impressive spell at Newcastle United.
However, his first season at Anfield has been far from straightforward.
Isak missed pre-season preparations before suffering a broken foot during Liverpool’s match against Tottenham Hotspur, limiting his ability to settle quickly into his new surroundings.
Despite those setbacks, the Swedish international showed encouraging signs after delivering several impressive performances for Sweden at the FIFA World Cup.
Dean Saunders believes Isak remains capable of becoming one of Europe’s elite goalscorers.
“If Isak stays fit, he’s a striker capable of scoring 30 goals in a season and helping Liverpool challenge for the Premier League title,” Saunders said.
That belief reflects the enormous confidence many still have in the 26-year-old striker.
Injury Concerns Continue to Raise Questions
Although Isak’s quality is undeniable, Saunders believes Liverpool cannot ignore his injury record.
The club’s packed schedule means relying on one leading striker carries significant risk.
According to Transfermarkt, Isak missed 30 matches during his first Liverpool season because of injuries or fitness-related issues.
That number represents a noticeable increase compared to his final years at Newcastle United.
Alexander Isak’s Recent Injury Record
- Missed 30 matches for Liverpool during the 2025/26 season.
- Suffered a broken foot against Tottenham Hotspur.
- Experienced fitness problems after missing pre-season.
- Missed only 17 matches across his final two seasons at Newcastle United.
- Faces another demanding campaign with domestic and European commitments.
Those statistics explain why Liverpool are being encouraged to prepare stronger attacking cover before the transfer window closes.
Liverpool Need More Depth Up Front
Dean Saunders believes Liverpool should sign another striker to reduce the workload on Isak throughout the season.
The former Reds forward argues that proper squad rotation will help keep Liverpool’s star striker healthy during the most important stages of the campaign.
Modern football demands depth, particularly for clubs competing across multiple competitions.
Without another reliable center-forward, Liverpool could face serious problems if Isak suffers another lengthy absence.
Having quality alternatives would also allow manager Andoni Iraola greater tactical flexibility.
Bradley Barcola Is Linked, But Questions Remain
Liverpool have recently been linked with Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola.
The French international is highly regarded for his pace, creativity, and technical ability.
However, Saunders believes Barcola would not completely solve Liverpool’s striker concerns.
Although the Frenchman has occasionally played as a central forward, he is naturally more comfortable operating from wide attacking positions.
That distinction is important.
Liverpool may still require a specialist number nine capable of replacing Isak whenever necessary.
Lewis Koumas Could Be the Internal Solution
While Liverpool continue monitoring the transfer market, Saunders believes the club may already possess an exciting backup option.
Young striker Lewis Koumas has continued to impress with his development.
The academy graduate recently scored during Liverpool’s 4-2 pre-season victory over Sunderland, further strengthening his case for first-team opportunities.
His progress has not gone unnoticed inside the club.
Before returning to Anfield, Koumas enjoyed a successful loan spell with Hull City.
His performances played an important role in helping Hull secure promotion to the Premier League through the play-offs.
Why Lewis Koumas Is Earning Attention
- Scored during Liverpool’s pre-season win over Sunderland.
- Completed a successful loan spell with Hull City.
- Helped Hull earn Premier League promotion.
- Developed through Liverpool’s academy system.
- Continues to improve under senior coaching staff.
Those achievements suggest Koumas could become a valuable squad player sooner than many expected.
Following the Path of Liverpool Academy Legends
Dean Saunders believes Lewis Koumas has the opportunity to follow in the footsteps of legendary Liverpool academy graduates.
Players such as Robbie Fowler and Michael Owen became first-team stars after taking advantage of early opportunities.
Saunders hopes Koumas receives a similar chance.
“Liverpool have always rewarded young players who score goals. I hope Lewis gets that opportunity,” he explained.
Liverpool’s history of trusting talented academy players makes Koumas’ situation especially interesting.
The club has repeatedly demonstrated that age is not a barrier when young players consistently perform.
Craig Bellamy Sees Koumas as a Natural Striker
Another encouraging sign comes from Wales national team manager Craig Bellamy.
According to Saunders, Bellamy believes Koumas’ strongest position is through the middle rather than on the wing.
That assessment could influence Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola when considering attacking options throughout the season.
Playing as a central striker may allow Koumas to maximize his finishing ability and movement inside the penalty area.
If Isak requires rest or suffers another injury setback, Koumas could provide valuable support.
What Koumas Must Do Next
- Continue learning from Liverpool’s senior forwards.
- Impress consistently during training sessions.
- Stay patient for first-team opportunities.
- Take every chance when selected.
- Keep developing physically and tactically.
Saunders remains confident that opportunities will arrive if Koumas continues progressing at his current rate.
Liverpool Must Balance Experience and Youth
Liverpool enter the 2026/27 season with Alexander Isak leading the attack, but Dean Saunders believes that alone is not enough for a club chasing major trophies. While Isak has the quality to score 30 goals in a season, his recent injury record highlights the importance of having dependable alternatives.
Whether Liverpool decide to sign another experienced striker or place greater trust in Lewis Koumas, strengthening attacking depth should remain a priority. With a long campaign ahead, combining elite talent with promising academy players could give the Reds the balance they need to compete for both Premier League and European success.
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