Liverpool are nervously waiting for news on Alexander Isak after the forward picked up a painful injury just as he seemed to be hitting a crucial stride in his Anfield career.
Arne Slot’s team were pressing for a breakthrough in their Premier League match against Tottenham, who were already reduced to ten men, when Liverpool’s high-profile summer recruits finally linked up to create a decisive moment.
In the 56th minute, a loose pass from Cristian Romero was intercepted, giving Florian Wirtz room to operate before threading a perfectly timed through-ball to Isak. The Swede kept his cool and finished confidently to give Liverpool the lead.
It was only Isak’s second league goal since his big-money switch to Merseyside and also a first Premier League assist for Wirtz.
For a brief moment, it looked like a defining statement from the £225 million partnership, hinting that both players were starting to repay the club’s investment.
That optimism quickly faded. As Isak scored, he was caught by a late challenge from Micky van de Ven, who failed to make proper contact with the ball and instead tangled Isak’s legs, sending him heavily to the ground.
While his teammates celebrated, Isak stayed down in visible distress, surrounded by concerned players.
Liverpool’s medical team immediately entered the pitch to evaluate what appeared to be a leg problem. There was real anxiety that the striker might need a stretcher, sparking fears of a serious injury.
Although he was eventually able to walk off, Isak was clearly uncomfortable and had to be helped by two doctors as he slowly reached the sideline.
His evening ended there, with Jeremie Frimpong replacing him. The goal that should have marked a positive turning point may instead come at a heavy cost if the injury proves significant.
Gary Neville described the situation as cruelly unfortunate, pointing out that the strike could have been a major confidence lift for Isak. Instead, it left him facing renewed doubt just as his form appeared to be improving.
The 25-year-old had only been introduced at half-time after a flat opening period, but his influence was immediate, injecting urgency into Liverpool’s attack.
The goal followed his first league strike for the club against West Ham in late November and was just his second in all competitions since completing his record-breaking move from Newcastle.
Isak has so far found himself competing with Hugo Ekitike, who has been in prolific form. The Frenchman again showed his value by scoring Liverpool’s second goal and moving to eight league goals, while Isak continues to battle for rhythm and fitness.
Elsewhere, Real Madrid and Bayern Munich are also monitoring Marc Guehi and may consider an approach in the January window.
