Alan Shearer shares major Alexander Isak injury update ahead of Carabao Cup final.

How about that so-called “blip” Liverpool supposedly had in February?

The Reds briefly gave Arsenal hope of a title race collapse after being knocked out of the FA Cup by Plymouth and suffering late heartbreak at Goodison Park.

However, any doubts over their title credentials were quickly silenced as Arne Slot’s side stormed to a 13-point lead, securing back-to-back wins over Manchester City and Newcastle United.

If they stay on course, they could claim their first trophy of the season in just over two weeks when they face Newcastle again at Wembley.

Alexander Isak expected to be fit for the Carabao Cup final

Newcastle fans can breathe a sigh of relief, as Alan Shearer has confirmed that the Swedish striker is likely to be available.

“From what I’m hearing, he’s going to be fine for the final,” Shearer said on The Rest is Football podcast.

“Eddie Howe will have to manage that carefully over the next two weekends. Newcastle have Brighton in the FA Cup and then West Ham on Monday night.

“If there’s even a slight doubt over a player, I imagine he’ll rest them for the final, which makes perfect sense.”

The 25-year-old forward missed Newcastle’s Premier League clash with Liverpool due to a minor groin issue ahead of their visit to Anfield.

Isak’s return boosts Newcastle’s cup hopes

Isak was a significant absence in Newcastle’s 2-0 loss at Anfield, and the statistics back up his importance.

The Swedish international has contributed 41.3% of Newcastle’s Premier League goals this season, and his absence has been costly.

In the three league matches he has missed in 2024/25, Newcastle have failed to win, recording two draws and a defeat—albeit in challenging fixtures against Manchester City, Everton, and Liverpool.