Rush sees classic No.9 qualities in Isak
Liverpool legend Ian Rush believes Alexander Isak still has everything required to justify his record-breaking transfer and become a defining striker for the club. Speaking recently, Rush made it clear that patience will be key as the Swedish forward prepares to return from injury.
Isak’s first months on Merseyside have been turbulent. Signed for a club-record fee reported around £125 million from Newcastle United, expectations were immediately sky high. The striker showed flashes of his ability but suffered a major setback in December when he broke his leg while scoring in a Premier League match against Tottenham.
Before that injury, Isak had managed three goals in a Liverpool shirt. Those numbers barely scratch the surface of what the 26-year-old has demonstrated throughout his career, and Rush insists the forward’s attributes are exactly what modern football often lacks.
Speaking in an interview originally reported by the Echo, Rush praised the striker’s traditional centre-forward qualities. He said: “You don’t see proper No.9s now, do you? You’ve got [Erling] Haaland, [Harry] Kane and you’ve got Isak.”
For Rush, who built his reputation as Liverpool’s greatest goalscorer, the role of a genuine No.9 still matters. The Welshman recognises something familiar in Isak’s game — movement in the box, instinctive finishing and a striker’s hunger for goals.
Rush added: “I can’t wait for him to get back because he’s in my sort of position. I like to see a proper No.9 and hopefully we’ll see him soon.”
Liverpool head coach Arne Slot has already indicated that Isak could return to full fitness early next month, raising hopes that supporters will soon see the striker properly integrated into the team.
Ekitike’s rise gives Liverpool attacking depth
While Isak has been recovering, Hugo Ekitike has emerged as one of the brightest attacking sparks in Liverpool’s campaign. The French forward has quickly settled into life at the club and has become the team’s leading scorer this season.
Ekitike’s form has inevitably sparked debate about how Liverpool will line up once Isak returns. Will the two strikers compete for the same role, or can they operate together in the same attacking unit?
Rush believes there is no reason why both players cannot thrive side by side.
The former Liverpool striker sees flexibility in Ekitike’s game that could allow the pair to complement each other. Rather than forcing a choice between the two forwards, Rush believes Liverpool could harness both of their strengths.
“Isak is a No.9,” Rush explained when discussing the tactical situation.
His point was simple: elite players find ways to fit into successful teams.
Partnership potential between Isak and Ekitike
For supporters eager to see Liverpool’s attacking options flourish, the prospect of an Isak and Ekitike partnership is an exciting one.
Rush is confident that if both players continue performing, the manager will find a way to accommodate them. Competition in the forward line is often what drives top teams to success, and Liverpool appear to have two strikers capable of delivering goals.
Rush said: “All you have to do to the manager is show them what you can do on the pitch and they can’t leave you out. If they’re both performing, then they can both start in the same side.”
That statement captures a core truth of elite football. Managers respond to form, and if both Isak and Ekitike continue producing decisive performances, the tactical puzzle becomes an opportunity rather than a problem.
Ekitike’s ability to drift wider or operate from the left could provide the balance needed for both forwards to play together. Meanwhile, Isak’s presence through the middle would give Liverpool a focal point capable of finishing moves inside the penalty area.
Rush enjoying return to Liverpool ambassador role
Away from the tactical talk, Rush has also been enjoying his return to public duties after a difficult health scare last year. The Liverpool legend was hospitalised after collapsing due to a severe strain of influenza, but he has since made a full recovery.
Now back in his role as a club ambassador, Rush has been reconnecting with supporters and reflecting on his relationship with the club.
Speaking about the support he received during his illness, Rush said: “The amount of support I had was incredible. I was in hospital for six days. You don’t get any younger and I managed to come out.”
He added: “The support I had from all the fans was immense and is something that I will hold with me until I do pass away. It brings me even closer to the Liverpool fans as well.”
Rush also spoke warmly about how younger supporters still recognise his achievements for Liverpool.
“The younger generation when you see them supporting Liverpool. It’s amazing that they still remember my name.”
For a player who scored 346 goals for the club, that connection is hardly surprising.
As Liverpool look ahead to the final stretch of the season, attention will turn to Isak’s return and whether he can ignite a powerful attacking partnership with Ekitike. If Rush’s instincts are correct, the club may soon have a striking duo capable of shaping Liverpool’s next chapter.
