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Liverpool striker Alexander Isak is expected to be sidelined for around two months after fracturing his leg following what manager Arne Slot described as a “reckless” tackle by Tottenham defender Micky van de Ven.
The Sweden international was injured while scoring the opening goal in Liverpool’s 2-1 win away to Spurs on Saturday.
The club confirmed on Monday that Isak had undergone surgery on an ankle injury, which included a fracture to the fibula in his left leg.
Speaking on Tuesday, Slot admitted the setback was a major blow.
He said the injury would keep the forward out for “a couple of months,” calling it a huge disappointment both for the player and the team.
The Liverpool manager was critical of the challenge that caused the injury, arguing that it carried a serious risk of harm.
Slot claimed that Van de Ven’s tackle was dangerous, suggesting that such a challenge could easily lead to a serious injury.
His comments were quickly challenged by Tottenham boss Thomas Frank, who defended his player and rejected the suggestion that the incident was reckless.
Frank said Isak’s planted foot made the collision appear worse and insisted Van de Ven is a fair defender, adding that the two players had already resolved the matter between themselves.
The injury is the latest frustration for Isak since his high-profile move from Newcastle to Liverpool for a British record fee of £125 million in September.
The 26-year-old arrived at Anfield short of match fitness after a drawn-out transfer and later suffered a groin problem, further disrupting his start to life on Merseyside.
Slot acknowledged it has been a difficult spell for the striker, who has scored just three goals in 16 appearances across all competitions, but insisted patience was always required.
He said adapting to a new club and league without a proper pre-season made it hard for Isak to immediately show his best form.
The Liverpool manager added that recent performances had shown encouraging signs, pointing to Isak’s goals against West Ham and Tottenham as evidence that he was beginning to rediscover the level he displayed at Newcastle last season, making the timing of the injury particularly unfortunate.
Isak’s absence comes at a testing time for Liverpool’s attack, with Mohamed Salah away at the Africa Cup of Nations and Cody Gakpo doubtful for Saturday’s home clash with Wolves.
Hugo Ekitike and Federico Chiesa are currently the only fit senior forwards available, while Slot declined to comment on possible January transfer activity to reinforce his squad.
