Liverpool’s Injury Concerns: Isak’s Setback and Future Strategies

Liverpool secured a 2-1 victory over Tottenham, thanks in part to Alexander Isak’s opening goal. However, the striker was forced to leave the pitch shortly after scoring due to a late challenge by Spurs defender Micky van de Ven.

Hugo Ekitike, Liverpool’s other summer signing, scored the team’s second goal of the match. Injury expert Ben Dinnery spoke with Casino Beats, stating that it may not be necessary for Liverpool to pursue high-level cover for Isak during the January transfer window. He noted that manager Arne Slot already has ample attacking options at his disposal.

Dinnery remarked, “My immediate thought is that Liverpool won’t need to find a solution for Alexander Isak’s injury in the January transfer window. The expectation is that Isak will return before the end of the season, and Liverpool possesses sufficient depth in their forward line.”

He suggested that Hugo Ekitike is the obvious replacement for Isak, with the prospect of Mohamed Salah’s return from AFCON in January. Additionally, Dominik Szoboszlai could be utilized across the front three.

The challenge for Liverpool will be to recruit a player who meets the quality expected of a first-team striker. Potential signings may consider their long-term role at the club, given the existing options in Ekitike and Isak. Dinnery pointed out that acquiring players in January can be difficult, as selling clubs hold more leverage.

One player linked to the club is Antoine Semenyo, known for his versatility. However, Dinnery believes that if Liverpool decides to recruit in January, their focus should be on finding someone to support Ekitike rather than directly competing with him for a starting striker role.

Although Isak is expected to face a lengthy recovery process, Dinnery anticipates that he will be ready to return by March. However, the club should also monitor his preparations for the 2026-27 season.

Dinnery added, “With a fractured fibula, the severity of the injury will influence recovery time. Typically, such injuries require six to eight weeks of recovery, but Isak’s ankle complications and subsequent surgery may extend this timeframe. The recovery process often involves setbacks, making it rare for players to return to full fitness without interruption.

“It seemed we were starting to see Isak regain his form, similar to his performance levels at Newcastle, as he approached better fitness after missing the pre-season. The unfortunate reality is he will likely return towards the season’s end, gradually gaining minutes to rebuild his fitness, with an emphasis on a strong pre-season for the following year.”

During a recent press conference, Slot criticized Van de Ven for the challenge that caused Isak’s injury, labeling it as ‘reckless’ and likely to have resulted in significant harm.

“It was a reckless challenge,” Slot stated. “I previously commented on the tackle by Xavi Simons on Virgil van Dijk, which was unintentional; such a tackle rarely leads to injury. However, if you execute a tackle like Van de Ven’s ten times, there is a serious likelihood of causing injury each time.”