Liverpool are facing an anxious wait over the fitness of their record signing Alexander Isak, with fears mounting that the striker could be sidelined for a significant period.
Injury Strikes During Crucial Goal
The £125 million forward was injured during Liverpool's 2-1 Premier League victory over Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday night. The 26-year-old sustained the problem in the very act of scoring the opening goal, his second in the league this season.
Isak was caught by a sliding challenge from Spurs defender Micky van de Ven as he planted his foot to shoot, leaving him in clear distress. He had been on the pitch for just 11 minutes after being introduced as a half-time substitute and required help from Liverpool's medical staff to leave the field.
Scan Results Awaited Amid Manager's Concern
The club are now awaiting the results of an MRI scan to determine the full extent of the damage. Speaking after the match, head coach Arne Slot admitted the situation looked worrying.
"If a player doesn't even try to come back, that is usually not a good thing," Slot said. "That is just gut feeling and nothing medical... let's not be too negative yet. We don't know yet. Let's hope he is back with us soon."
The injury compounds a frustrating debut season for the Sweden international, whose move from Newcastle was followed by a groin issue that disrupted his integration into the squad.
Forward Line Stretched to Breaking Point
Isak's likely absence creates a major headache for Slot, coming at a time when Liverpool's attacking resources are already depleted.
The situation leaves Slot with limited senior options:
- Hugo Ekitiké, who is in strong form with five goals in his last four games.
- Federico Chiesa, who has seen limited minutes this campaign.
- Academy graduate Jayden Danns, who is recovering from a hamstring injury.
The injury crisis is exacerbated by Mohamed Salah's participation in the Africa Cup of Nations and Cody Gakpo's continued absence with a muscle problem.
In response, Liverpool are reportedly pushing to complete a £65 million deal for Bournemouth's Antoine Semenyo in the January transfer window, with the Ghanaian international said to favour a move to Anfield despite interest from Manchester City and Manchester United.
