Liverpool striker Alexander Isak faces up to two months out after surgery on a fractured leg sustained in a reckless tackle by Micky Van de Ven against Tottenham.
Liverpool have confirmed Alexander Isak faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines after suffering a fractured leg. The Sweden striker underwent surgery on Monday following the injury against Tottenham. Club sources expect him to be out for at least two months, though no exact return date has been given.
Isak sustained the injury while scoring in Liverpool’s 2-1 Premier League win in north London. He was caught by a sliding challenge from Micky van de Ven just after releasing his shot. The forward was unable to continue and left the pitch with medical assistance.
Liverpool manager Arne Slot did not hide his frustration when discussing the incident. He described Van de Ven’s tackle as reckless and said it carried a serious risk of injury. Slot stressed that similar challenges could easily cause long term damage.
The Dutch coach contrasted the incident with other recent challenges. He said Van de Ven’s follow through made the situation far more dangerous. Slot added that Isak’s absence is a major blow for both player and club.
Despite the injury setback, Isak’s finish at Tottenham highlighted his growing sharpness. The goal was his third in 16 appearances since joining Liverpool. It followed strikes against West Ham and Southampton earlier this season.
Hugo Ekitike also impressed again, scoring and continuing his strong run of form. The French forward now has 11 goals in all competitions this season. His recent performances have eased some pressure on Liverpool’s attack.
The injury is the latest setback in a stop start campaign for Isak. He joined Liverpool from Newcastle for a British record £125m in the summer. A disrupted preseason and earlier fitness issues slowed his adaptation.
Isak has made only 10 Premier League starts so far this season. He has scored three league goals from those appearances. Slot has repeatedly said the striker was beginning to rediscover his best form.
Liverpool’s attacking options are already stretched. Mohamed Salah is away with Egypt at the Africa Cup of Nations. Cody Gakpo remains sidelined with a muscle injury but could return next month.
Slot confirmed Conor Bradley faces a late fitness test for the weekend. Joe Gomez and Wataru Endo are ruled out. Federico Chiesa and Rio Ngumoha have been used sparingly this season.
Liverpool host Wolves at Anfield on December 27th before facing Leeds United on January 1st. They then travel to Fulham and Arsenal in early January. An FA Cup third round tie against Barnsley follows on January 12th.
In Europe, Liverpool face Marseille away on January 21st before hosting Qarabag a week later. With Isak sidelined, Ekitike is expected to lead the line during a demanding run. Slot has said the focus remains on results, not January transfers.
