By Martin Graham
Liverpool head coach Arne Slot has confirmed that Alexander Isak will be sidelined for around two months following an injury sustained during the win over Tottenham.
The forward was hurt during a sliding intervention by Micky van de Ven while finding the net in the 2-1 success in north London.
Subsequent medical checks revealed damage to his lower leg, and the club confirmed he required surgery after suffering a fibula break as part of an ankle problem.
Slot admitted the setback was a major frustration, explaining that the recovery period will keep the Sweden striker out for a significant stretch of the campaign.
Debate over van de Ven challenge
Slot was outspoken when assessing the incident, describing the action by the Spurs defender as dangerous and avoidable.
He contrasted that moment with an earlier dismissal involving Xavi Simons, who was sent off for a late challenge on Virgil van Dijk, which Slot felt carried no real intent to injure.
According to the Liverpool manager, the likelihood of serious harm was far higher in Van de Ven’s tackle, arguing that repetition of such a move would often result in injury.
Tottenham manager Thomas Frank rejected that view, defending his player’s instincts and insisting the situation worsened only because Isak’s foot was planted at the moment of contact.
Mixed reactions and Liverpool options
Former Reds defender Jamie Carragher sympathised with Liverpool over the loss of Isak but suggested the defender’s action was understandable in the circumstances.
Carragher explained that blocking the attempt was essential and that the unfortunate outcome was down to chance rather than poor judgement.
Liverpool now faces Wolves with limited attacking resources, as Mohamed Salah remains away with Egypt at the Africa Cup of Nations.
Slot offered some positive news, noting that Cody Gakpo could return from a muscle issue, while Jeremie Frimpong is fit enough to start after a recent cameo.
Slot confident Isak still has role to play
Isak’s latest injury adds to a difficult period following his £125m arrival from Newcastle United.
The striker has battled both fitness issues and form, recording three goals across 16 outings since his move.
Slot reflected on the disruption Isak faced before joining Liverpool, including limited training time and a delayed integration into the squad.
Despite the current setback, the manager remains convinced the forward can still contribute later in the season, pointing to recent goals as signs of steady improvement.
