Isak arrived from Newcastle United in a British-record deal worth one hundred and twenty-five million pounds, but the striker has returned only two goals in his first 12 matches across all competitions. His slow start has partly stemmed from what Slot described as a "disjointed" pre-season at St James' Park prior to his move to Liverpool.

The 25-year-old scored his first Premier League goal for Liverpool in last weekend's 2-0 win over West Ham United but averaged only 14 touches across starts against Nottingham Forest, West Ham and Sunderland. Slot admitted that the numbers highlight a wider problem in Liverpool's attacking play.

"He is not the only number nine who suffers from not getting many chances," Slot said. "At this level, it is not like the forwards are involved in eight or nine chances every half. But it is obvious and clear that we want to bring him into threatening positions far more."

Slot pointed out that even elite strikers deal with low involvement, using Erling Haaland as an example. "I have no clue what Haaland's stats are, but I would not be surprised if he does not touch the ball 100 times a game," he said. "But he scores a lot. The important thing is touching the ball at the right moments. Haaland does that better, and that is where we have to improve with Alex."

While Isak's numbers remain a concern, Slot has found encouragement in the form of Florian Wirtz, who delivered the decisive moment against Sunderland when his strike deflected in off Nordi Mukiele. The German playmaker has earned praise for his sharpness and authority on the ball since returning from injury.

"Florian is maybe the most obvious one in terms of improving," Slot said. "You can see how confident he is by how often he wants the ball and how often his team-mates play him in. He has done well after coming back from injury."

Slot also highlighted progress from summer signing Milos Kerkez, but stressed Liverpool still "are not where they want to be" heading into a busy December.

Liverpool return to Premier League action on Saturday when they travel to Leeds United looking to sharpen their cutting edge and give Isak the service he needs.

Nedbank Cup Round of 32 draw