Alexander Isak is set for an extended period on the sidelines after suffering a “suspected leg break” against Tottenham.
Liverpool beat Tottenham 2-1 at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Saturday, with the Swede’s goal handing the visitors the lead.
Micky van de Ven attempted to block the shot, sliding in and making contact with the striker, who was unable to continue.
Arne Slot could not share much information about Isak’s injury after the game, but the Liverpool boss was clearly concerned.
Hugo Ekitike is expected to step up in Isak’s absence, with the Frenchman representing the only other natural striker in Slot‘s squad.
Liverpool to confirm Alexander Isak fears
Isak has not really got going for Liverpool yet this season, scoring just three goals across 16 appearances since completing his record £125million move from Newcastle United.
But his goal against Tottenham was well-taken, and may well have acted as a turning point for the Swede.
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It was immediately obvious that the 26-year-old’s injury was serious, however. Despite scoring, there was no semblance of a smile on his face.
With assistance, Isak could walk off the pitch, alleviating some immediate fears, but Liverpool fans will have a stinging memory of Virgil van Dijk walking off against Everton after rupturing his ACL.
However, Isak’s injury is in his lower leg, not his knee. David Ornstein reported on Sunday night that the striker is set to be ruled out with a leg break, with scans set to confirm the pessimistic initial diagnosis in the coming days.
The Sweden international is expected to be out for a few months, with the fracture being to the left side of his leg.
Liverpool’s transfer plans could be altered
Slot has been left in a bind by the news ruling Isak out. The Dutchman was already without Mohamed Salah after the winger left for the African Cup of Nations, and is now left with a serious dearth of attacking options.
Cody Gakpo is also injured, but is expected to return before the start of the January transfer window.
There have been plenty of rumours that Salah could be set to leave in the winter, with Saudi Pro League clubs circling following his public criticism of Slot.
Isak’s injury may well flip Liverpool’s stance on such a move on its head, however. In the Reds’ current state, an injury to Ekitike would prove catastrophic, and extending that situation until the return of Isak appears implausible.
Instead, decision-makers may well look to bring in a third striking option, who could well take the form of a younger option to develop once the Swede is back.