Arne Slot Slams Reckless Challenge Leaving Isak Sidelined for Two Months

Alexander Isak is set to miss around two months of action following a broken leg sustained against Tottenham, as Liverpool boss Arne Slot labels the challenge from Tottenham defender Micky van de Ven as reckless.

The Swedish forward picked up the injury during a challenge from the defender as he netted the first goal in Saturdays 2-1 win, before hobbling from the field.

Liverpool announced on Monday that the striker underwent surgery for an ankle problem involving a fractured fibula.

Its a lengthy layoff, probably a couple of months, Slot said to journalists on Tuesday, so yes, its a massive letdown for him, and naturally for the team too.

Slot branded van de Vens intervention as reckless.

I commented extensively on Xavi Simons tackle earlier in the match for Spurs, which was utterly accidental in my view, and I doubt it would cause any harm.

With van de Vens challenge, if repeated ten times, Id say theres a strong risk of severe injury each time.

This latest issue for Isak comes after his record breaking £125 million ($168 million) transfer from Newcastle in September.

A row with his former club prevented a full pre season routine, leaving him short on match fitness compared to his new colleagues upon arrival at Anfield.

His campaign was further disrupted by a groin problem.

The 26 year old has managed only three strikes in 16 outings since his drawn out switch to Liverpool.

Isaks unavailability represents a significant setback for Slot, especially with Mohamed Salah away at the Africa Cup of Nations and Cody Gakpo unlikely to recover from his muscle issue until the new year.

This leaves the manager relying on Hugo Ekitike, who has netted five in his last four fixtures, and the seldom used Federico Chiesa as primary attacking options.

Following a dismal spell that derailed their Premier League title bid, Liverpool have risen to fifth place, maintaining an unbeaten streak of five league matches.

The forwards misfortune could prompt Liverpool to reinforce their frontline during the January window, amid rumours linking Bournemouths Antoine Semenyo to Anfield.

It might also shift discussions regarding Salah, recently tied to Saudi interest after his outburst claiming the club had undermined him and that ties with Slot were severed.

Salahs frustration, voiced after being benched for three games in a row, led to his exclusion from the Champions League squad against Inter Milan.

However, he featured as a replacement versus Brighton prior to departing for national team commitments.

Liverpool face basement dwellers Wolves at home on Saturday.