Liverpool are bracing themselves for bad news after Alexander Isak suffered what is believed to be a significant lower leg injury during Saturday’s 2-1 win over Tottenham Hotspur. The £125 million British-record signing is expected to face an extended spell on the sidelines, with the club awaiting MRI scan results before confirming the extent of the damage.
The mood inside Anfield is said to be grim.
Isak, 26, picked up the injury while scoring his side’s opener in the 56th minute at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium—his second Premier League goal of the season. In the process of converting Florian Wirtz’s assist, Isak’s leg was caught between Micky van de Ven’s as the defender lunged desperately to block the strike. The challenge went unpunished despite referee John Brooks issuing red cards to Spurs duo Xavi Simons earlier in the game, as well as a second yellow to Cristian Romero later on.
Isak was in visible agony and required prolonged treatment from Liverpool’s medical team, including head of performance physical therapy Chris Morgan and director of medicine Jonathan Power. He was eventually helped off the pitch, still in considerable discomfort. The club’s medical staff, according to multiple reports, have ruled out the possibility of the Swedish striker suffering an ACL tear, but there is growing concerned that Van de Ven’s tackle did cause a rather serious lower-leg injury, which could also keep him out of action for a considerable spell of time.
Isak’s Liverpool career has yet to gather momentum following his deadline-day move from Newcastle United. A groin problem had already sidelined him for nearly a month earlier this season, and he has struggled to make a consistent impact. Saturday’s goal was seen as a turning point, marking his first link-up with Wirtz—another marquee summer signing that underwhelmed early on—but hopes of building that partnership now appear slim, at least for a while.
The setback adds to mounting problems for Arne Slot, who is already without several key players. Conor Bradley picked up an injury in the same match, while Dominik Szoboszlai’s booking means he will miss next weekend’s clash with Wolverhampton Wanderers. Mohamed Salah has departed for the Africa Cup of Nations, Cody Gakpo and Wataru Endo remain sidelined, and Giovanni Leoni is a long-term absentee after suffering an ACL injury on his debut in September.
Jeremie Frimpong has returned from an injury of his own, but like Isak, he came on from the bench to register a goal contribution – assisting Ekitike for the second goal – and left the pitch before the end, with a bloody lip. He will, however, be available for the next game.
Liverpool had fallen behind the Manchester clubs in the race for the services of Bournemouth attacker Antoine Semenyo – both City and United have met with his representatives in the last few days – but Isak’s injury may prompt the reigning champions to step up their efforts. It is expected to impact their transfer activities in January in any case.
