Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola has confirmed that Alexander Isak and Cody Gakpo will both miss Sunday's Premier League showdown with leaders Manchester City at Anfield, after the pair picked up injuries during the international break.

The news represents a considerable blow to Liverpool's attacking options heading into one of the most anticipated fixtures of the early season. Both players were hurt on international duty — Gakpo with an ankle injury, Isak with a problem in his thigh.

"Alex Isak and Gakpo won't play, not ready unfortunately for us," Iraola told the media. "Injuries in the break. You always hope the doctor doesn't call you, but we have been unlucky. They are not going to be involved."

Timeframe for returns

Iraola moved to reassure supporters that neither injury appears to be long-term. "Gakpo has an ankle injury, a matter of him dealing with the pain following a bad tackle. He is working, but not for Sunday," the manager explained. "Isak has a thigh injury — whenever he feels ready, they don't look like long-term injuries, but they are not ready for Sunday."

With the two first-team forwards absent, Lewis Koumas is expected to provide cover and add depth to Iraola's attacking options for the weekend.

Positive news on Jacquet

There was at least one piece of encouraging news from the pre-match press conference, with Iraola confirming that defender Jeremy Jacquet is fit and available. "He is fit and ready to go. He will be fine, we need to train today," the manager said.

Iraola relishes the Anfield occasion

Despite the setbacks, Iraola made clear he is looking forward to the challenge. Liverpool head into the game in strong form — four wins from their last five matches across all competitions, including a hard-fought 1-0 victory at Bournemouth before the break. A win on Sunday could lift the unbeaten side into the Premier League top four.

"It's an exciting game, at home at Anfield against league leaders. Won all their games. They will go for it, so will we — we have to be ready and help our supporters. I hope we are at the level," Iraola said.

The Liverpool boss was also keen to temper expectations, stressing the early stage of the campaign. "I think it is still very early whatever happens on Sunday — just five games — but it is true we like to face teams like City and show our level, definitely. It's massive for everyone involved, it's an exciting moment," he added.