Hart: Isak dropping deep signals confidence issue at Liverpool

BBC Sport analyst Joe Hart has offered an explanation for why Liverpool may not currently be getting the most out of striker Alexander Isak, pointing to a change in the Swedish forward's positioning during matches.

According to Hart, Isak has increasingly been dropping deeper into midfield areas to receive possession, rather than remaining in advanced positions close to the opposition's defensive line waiting for service in the final third.

A sign of low confidence

Hart interprets this shift in behaviour as an indication that Isak is currently low in confidence. When a striker doubts his ability to make an impact near goal, he often gravitates towards a deeper, safer role involved in build-up play, which reduces pressure but also limits his threat as a finisher.

The pundit suggested this tendency, while understandable from an individual player's point of view, does not align with what is expected of a top-level centre-forward by his team and coaching staff.

Impact on the team

If a forward consistently drops off to help build attacks, it can alter the team's overall attacking shape and leave a gap in the space where forward passes into the box would normally be aimed. This, in turn, can affect other players' ability to create and convert chances.

The BBC Sport clip does not reference specific match results or statistics, but Hart's assessment suggests Liverpool need to find a way to restore Isak's confidence and encourage him to return to a more direct, goal-focused role.