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From fans to Arne Slot himself, many face a nervous wait to find out how long Alexander Isak will spend on the sidelines after picking up an injury in Liverpool's 2-1 away win against Tottenham Hotspur – and goalkeeper Alisson Becker provided a short update following the match.

A dreary first half, perhaps thanks to Xavi Simons' sending off following a rash challenge on compatriot Virgil van Dijk, needed something special to turn it around and Slot opted to bring on Isak at the half-time interval. It took the striker 11 minutes to make an impact in the final third.

The Isak of old shone through as he latched onto a pass from Florian Wirtz and swept home beyond Guglielmo Vicario with his left-footed effort, but he was caught by Micky van de Ven's late challenge and, therefore, had to be stretchered off. Hugo Ekitike soon added a second of the affair.

It's no secret that Isak's start to life hasn't been all sunshine and rainbows, but his goal against Spurs offered something of a platform for him to rise above the undying pressures of playing for a club the size and stature of the Anfield outfit. Van de Ven's challenge, however, put an end to that.

Isak, widely regarded as one of the best strikers in world football, had to be helped off the field of play with a stretcher by medical staff. "I don’t have any news on him but if a player scores, gets injured and doesn’t come back on the pitch or doesn’t try to come back, it’s usually not a good thing," Slot said after the win. "I cannot say anything more than that. That is just a gut feeling and nothing more than that.

"Nothing medical to say about it. I haven’t spoken to him about it yet but it’s a good thing he scored — a good goal assisted by Florian Wirtz. Let’s not be too negative yet. We don’t know yet. Let’s hope Alex is back with us soon but it is difficult to say.”

All attention was on the former Newcastle United talisman despite the victory on away soil and injury expert Physio Scout (on X, formerly Twitter) claimed that he could face anywhere between two and 12 weeks on the sidelines as the current diagnosis is very cloudy. They claimed that such a tackle can place stress on the knee structure with potential damage to the MCL and ACL.

They added that the most likely outcome would be that 26-year-old Isak sprained his ankle following contact from Van de Ven, resulting in him missing at least a two-month period of matches.

GIVEMESPORT Key Statistic: Alexander Isak holds the record for the most goals scored by a Swedish player in a single Premier League season, netting 23 goals for Newcastle United during the 2024/25 campaign.

The Athletic's Liverpool Correspondent, James Pearce, took to social media in the aftermath of victory last night to inform supporters that the Reds now face 'an anxious wait' to understand the severity of the Swedish striker's injury, though it is suspected to be a lower leg issue rather than his knee. Alisson also shed light on Isak's situation.

"Yeah, I think he'll be okay," the shot stopper said before sharing his delight at Isak's opener. "Happy for him for scoring the goal but, of course, we don't want him to be injured. Hopefully it's just a knock and nothing too serious because he can help our team so much with his quality."

With just three Liverpool goals to his name since his summer switch, Isak's goal against Spurs put an end to a four-match goal drought for the ex-Real Sociedad and Borussia Dortmund marksman – but, depending on the severity of said injury, it may be a while until he is able to add more to his tally.

Isak Out? Ekitike Set to Become Even More Crucial to Arne Slot

Liverpool's No.9 has struggled to adapt since moving to Liverpool in the summer for a whopping fee of £125 million, which begs the question about whether the goalscoring burden is too much for the Swede? That shouldn't be an issue for the Anfield faithful, though, as Hugo Ekitike is stepping up to the plate.

Initially, when both signings were confirmed, there were concerns about how they could work in tandem – possibly in a two-man strike partnership which, if fruitful, would strike fear into backlines all across Europe. A man that can make things happen, Ekitike has, however, shouldered much of the responsibility thus far.

The goal-getter from Sweden posted a career-best Premier League campaign in 2024/25, netting 23 times and providing six assists in 34 appearances for Eddie Howe's Magpies and Liverpool fans can expect the same level of potency in front of goal once he's signing from the same hymn sheet as his teammates.

Former PGMOL chief and Premier League referee Keith Hackett believes that a third red card could have been shown in Liverpool's 2-1 against Tottenham on Saturday afternoon.

Xavi Simons was sent off in the first half for a rash challenge on Virgil van Dijk. And that ultimately helped the visitors break the deadlock in the second half, as Alexander Isak buried a strike past Guglielmo Vicario.

Hugo Ekitike doubled Liverpool's lead before Richarlison got one back for Spurs, but the Brazilian's effort came too little too late. There was even time for a second red card, as Cristian Romero was shown a second yellow for kicking out at Ibrahima Konate.

Hackett: Referee Missed Third Red Card in Tottenham 1-2 Liverpool

Although two red cards in a single Premier League game is something of a rarity, John Brooks could well have sent a third player off late in the game according to Hackett. The former top flight official was far from impressed with Richarlison's actions after he scored Spurs' only goal of the match.

After the ball hit the net, Tottenham players rushed forward to grab it and restart play, but Ekitike retreated to prevent them from doing so. The Frenchman and Richarlison both tumbled to the floor, but as he got up, the Brazilian grabbed the back of his opponent's neck.

Hackett, reacting to the incident following the match, believes that the striker was fortunate not to be shown a red card for violent conduct. He told Football Insider: "There is no doubt that Richarlison is a competitive individual and certainly one that a referee needs to keep his eye on.

"In this particular situation, we see Richarlison with his hand on the neck of his opponent as he is getting up off the ground. There's a little pressure. Could easily have been a red card but was completely missed by officials, ignored by VAR and as a result, nothing happens.

"It could have been a red card mister Richarlison. Behave yourself."

Watch Hackett's Explanation Below:

Slot Happy With Liverpool's Performance

Victory for Liverpool means that they have now won three games in all competitions, as they rise to fifth in the table. Having endured a torrid patch of form lately, Slot will be delighted to see his team moving in the right direction.

Speaking after the game, the Dutch manager said: "Three points away at Spurs is very nice. It is a difficult stadium to go to, a good team to play against.

"Of course, they lost last week, so today they wanted to make it up in front of their fans. For us, the aim was to win again because we need wins to let the league table look better for us and eventually that's what we did."

Liverpool will now for their match against Wolverhampton Wanderers on Saturday 27th December, as they bid to continue their run against the Premier League's bottom-placed side. Tottenham, meanwhile, are back in action on Sunday 28th, travelling to Selhurst Park for a London derby against Crystal Palace.

Liverpool are waiting on scans following a triple injury scare in the win against Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday evening, according to Athletic reporter James Pearce.

Conor Bradley was withdrawn at half-time after suffering a knock towards the end of the first half, before Alexander Isak was taken off immediately after scoring his side's opening goal at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium having been clattered into by Micky van de Ven.

Pearce also spotted Florian Wirtz feeling his hamstring at the end of the game, as Arne Slot's Liverpool side held on to record a much-needed 2-1 win against nine-man Spurs.

Liverpool Facing 'Anxious Wait' Over Potential Injuries

The blow suffered by Isak looked particularly bad, with initial suggestions it could be a knee issue for the Sweden international.

However, posting on X, Pearce has confirmed that it is actually a lower leg issue for the Premier League's record signing, who came off of the bench to put the visitors ahead.

Meanwhile, the Reds journalist added that it is hoped that the issue that forced Bradley off at the break isn't serious, and that Wirtz's issue was just cramp.

The Merseyside club will now await the results of the scans to see if that is the case, as they look set to embark on a busy festive period with matches against Wolves, Leeds, Fulham and Arsenal between December 27 and January 8.

Huge Blow for Isak

While hopes are seemingly high that Bradley and Wirtz's issues are not serious, Isak's didn't look great.

A stretcher was called following the collision and while it is a boost that it isn't the knee that has been affected, a lower leg injury is not exactly positive either.

It could have been a defining game for Isak too, who has struggled to live up to his huge price tag following his summer switch from Newcastle United.

Big moments and goals have been few and far between, with his only other strikes coming against West Ham United and Southampton in the Carabao Cup.

However, his finish against Spurs was good and one that gave them the lead in a game where they had been toothless in the first half.

Isak and Liverpool will be hoping that the injury isn't as bad as it looked at first, as the Swede looks to get his Reds career properly up and running.

Tottenham Hotspur star Xavi Simons has been labelled as 'stupid' and a 'terrible signing' by talkSPORT presenter Jeff Stelling following Saturday's 2-1 defeat to Liverpool.

The Dutchman has flattered to deceive for much of the season following his summer move from RB Leipzig, but had started to look more at home in recent weeks under Thomas Frank.

However, he let Tottenham's manager down in the first half against Arne Slot's side as his tackle on Netherlands compatriot Virgil van Dijk was punished with a red card after an intervention by VAR.

Xavi Simons Tackle was 'Not Accidental'

Tottenham's clash with Liverpool had been very uneventful until Simons' tackle on Liverpool captain Van Dijk, which initially produced a yellow card from referee John Brooks.

However, the match official was called to the monitor by VAR, where he changed his mind and showed the Dutchman a red card having reviewed the footage.

Simons spoke out on Instagram after the match to say he would never intentionally try to hurt an opponent, apologising to Van Dijk, his teammates, Thomas Frank and Spurs fans.

However, former Sky Sports host and now talkSPORT presenter Stelling was in no mood to show support for the 22-year-old after one fan said he felt sorry for the forward, posting on X:

Feel for him? It was stupid, done with intent - not accidental - and he has let his team down. Been a terrible signing for Spurs.

Strong comments from Stelling, both in terms of the incident and Simons' time at Tottenham in general.

Simons Can Still be a Tottenham Success

Expectations were understandably high when Tottenham signed Simons in a deal worth more than £50m from RB Leizpig in the summer, with the attacker considered to be one of the most exciting young talents in Europe.

However, it has been a slow start to his career in English football, with two goals and three assists in 22 matches so far for Spurs.

The red card is hardly a help for Simons as he looks to build some confidence and momentum at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium - something that has been lacking to date.

Sometimes players can take time to adapt to a new country and league though, and Simons has shown at his previous clubs just how good he is, and the potential he has.

Red card moments like this one can be a defining moment in a player's career at a club, and the Dutchman has a chance to use it as a motivation to return after suspension and finally set his Tottenham career alight.

Which Matches Will Simons Miss?

The 22-year-old is out for the whole Christmas period with a three-match ban imposed following the sending off for violent conduct.

Simons will miss the London clashes with Crystal Palace and Brentford over Christmas and New Year, as well as the visit of Sunderland on Janaury 4.

The Netherlands international will be back available to Frank for the visit to Bournemouth on January 7.

Xavi Simons has spoken out for the first time after being sent off in Tottenham's 2-1 defeat against Liverpool on Saturday afternoon, responding to the decision with a message to Virgil Van Dijk.

Following a tepid start to the game, Spurs' ambitions were dealt a huge blow when their Dutch midfielder's studs caught Van Dijk's leg in a nasty challenge. Following a VAR intervention, the referee was sent to the pitchside monitor, upgrading his decision to a red card.

Simons' sending off ultimately cost Thomas Frank's side the game, with Liverpool in the ascendency for most of the remaining 57 minutes. Alexander Isak and Hugo Ekitike put the visitors in front, although Richarlison did manage to grab one back for the hosts before Cristian Romero became the second Tottenham player to earn a red card.

Simons Sends Message to Van Dijk After Tottenham 1-2 Liverpool

After being given his marching orders, Simons appeared to be visibly emotional as he left the pitch. He's endured a difficult start to life in north London, with Frank still figuring out how to get the best out of him.

However, in a message on social media, the 22-year-old took the time to speak on the decision and send a message to Van Dijk, who offered consolation as he trudged off the pitch. In a post on Instagram, he wrote: "Mistakes happen. VIrg is my captain, I would never intentionally hurt him of anyone.

"To my Spurs teammates, my manager and fans, I take responsibility, I'm really sorry."

Check Out Simons' Post Below:

Frank Not Happy With Simons Red Card Decision

Tottenham manager Frank was asked to give his thoughts on the decision after the game in an interview with Match of the Day, with the Danish head coach expressing his unhappiness. He believes that the tackle from Simons lacked enough force to merit a red card, insisting that it was only worthy of a yellow.

"The way they responded to several setbacks was immense. The first one is the first red, which I think... I've seen it given before but I don't like it. I don't like those types of red cards because I think the game is gone if that's a red card.

"I don't think it's reckless tackle. I don't think it's exceptional force. We have the referee call and that was a yellow so that's why I don't think that's a red."

Simons' dismissal means that he will now miss three games of action, dealing Frank a blow as he bids to navigate a busy Christmas fixture list. The midfielder won't be available for games against Crystal Palace, Brentford and Sunderland, three sides who are all more than capable of getting a result against Spurs.

Although they might have picked up three important points against Tottenham, one Liverpool player really struggled in their 2-1 win in north London. And Arne Slot needs to consider benching him moving forward.

Hoping to make it three consecutive wins in all competitions, the Reds made a tentative start to proceedings, as did the hosts. However, the game took a turn for the worse for Spurs when Xavi Simons needlessly flew into Virgil van Dijk and caught him high on the back of his leg. VAR sent referee John Brooks to the screen, with the official then electing to show a straight red card.

Liverpool weren't able to find a breakthrough before half-time, and emerged from the break with more attacking intent. Bringing on Alexander Isak for Conor Bradley, the Swede repaid the faith shown in him 11 minutes later as he swept home Florian Wirtz's through ball — although he was forced off with an injury because of Micky van de Ven's attempted sliding tackle.

Tottenham came close to equalising when Randal Kolo Muani's deflected effort struck the bar on a rare venture forward, but their opponents doubled their advantage when Hugo Ekitike rose highest to head home Jeremie Frimpong's cross. Although Thomas Frank's side got one back through Richarlison, any hopes of a comeback were eliminated when Cristian Romero was needlessly sent off after receiving a second yellow for kicking out at Ibrahima Konate.

Mac Allister Offered Nothing in Liverpool's Win vs Tottenham

Tottenham and Liverpool both played at a snail's pace for much of the game, with both sets of players looking scared to lose rather than showing intent to win. Nevertheless, Simons' sending off should have been the spark which propelled the visitors forward, but they found themselves stifled by a lack of creativity for much of the game.

A big part of that comes down to options in midfield, and particularly Alexis Mac Allister. Florian Wirtz grabbed a first Premier League assist, while Dominik Szoboszlai, before being moved to right-back, at least posed a threat. Their Argentine teammate, however, simply let the game pass him by.

Playing in an advanced role against 10 men should have allowed the 26-year-old to dictate play and craft out opportunities, but he didn't manage to do either of those. Playing just 29 passes in the game, completing 25 of them, he didn't manage to play any key passes which crafted chances for teammates.

Check Out Mac Allister's Statistics vs Tottenham:

Also guilty of losing possession 10 times in the game, Mac Allister was careless and uncreative, two qualities which a number 10 simply can't exhibit. Earning a 3/10 in GIVEMESPORT's player ratings, Slot's best play is to drop the midfielder entirely — he's just not been good enough to start week in, week out.

Liverpool Fans Rage Over Mac Allister's Performance

There's been a large amount of outcry online from Liverpool supporters in the wake of Saturday afternoon's victory, as many are unhappy with what they saw from their engine room operator against Tottenham. One tweet bemoaned a lack of effort from him over 90 minutes, reading: "Genuinely getting sick of tired of seeing Mac Allister do nothing every single game. He runs like prime Usain Bolt for Argentina though."

Another fan was incensed by every facet of the Argentine's game against Spurs, stating: "Don't really know how to properly explain it but Mac Allister is just so incapable these days." More accused him of ghosting in the game, saying: "Mac Allister going missing again."

Described as "awful" by a fellow Liverpool fan, another added: "Mac Allister might be the new Gakpo, starts every game despite putting out average performances every single week." And one more asked: "What does Mac Allister contribute to the team?"

A final supporter said: "Watching Mac Allister nowadays is insane bro I’ve never seen a physical decline like this in my life."

Liverpool are plotting a stunning move to sign Lucas Bergvall from Tottenham and have already made a €60m bid, according to reports from Fichajes.

The Reds are in the process of preparing for the next era and made a number of exciting signings over the summer, including Jeremie Frimpong, Milos Kerkez, Florian Wirtz, Hugo Ekitike and Alexander Isak.

The next position that Arne Slot could look to strengthen in central midfield with the search on for an exciting, upward-curve midfielder who has the potential to become one of the best on the planet before long.

In Bergvall, they may have found the perfect person to continue that development.

Liverpool Make Lucas Bergvall a Priority Target

According to reports from Fichajes, Liverpool have made Bergvall 'a priority target'. It's claimed that the Reds have offered £52million to sign the Tottenham starlet. It's understood that they see him as the ideal person to be the next step in their gradual squad overhaul.

Spurs signed Bergvall for £8.5million from Swedish side Djurgarden in February 2024, beating Barcelona to his signature.

Since then, the 19-year-old has made 66 appearances for the North London side, scoring two goals and providing eight assists along the way.

With Liverpool looking for young talent who can perform immediately in the Premier League, it's easy to see why Bergvall fits the bill.

Bergvall Deal Would Be Major Boost For Reds

Liverpool's interest in Lucas Bergvall is very exciting for supporters. The Swedish starlet is one of the hottest young prospects in European football right now and has a wealth of experience under his belt for a player who is just 19 years of age.

The Reds are looking to lower the average age of their squad and ensure that they're capable of challenging at the top for years to come an Bergvall could be the ideal addition in doing exactly that.

Tottenham have hopes of building an exciting young team. However, if Bergvall is offered the chance to join Liverpool — a club where he will challenge for league titles and major honours — it would be hard for the midfielder to ignore that.

Spurs are not a club who are ready to challenge at the highest level right now and that means that if Liverpool meet Spurs' asking price, they may be vulnerable to selling one of their hottest prospects.

Randal Kolo Muani has been handed a fifth consecutive Premier League start in Tottenham Hotspur’s home clash with Liverpool but struggled to impress in the first half, with Gary Neville calling the Frenchman’s performance a ‘problem’ for Spurs.

The 27-year-old forward was active in the first 45 minutes, attempting three shots, but struggled to make a real impact, with none of his efforts troubling the visitors.

While the Frenchman saw his first shot blocked within five minutes, he also missed two headers, with his first going wide and the second straight at Alisson in Tottenham's only significant chance of the first half.

The forward should have done much better in Tottenham’s only effort on target in the first 45 minutes, with Neville rightly criticising the 27-year-old, who is still searching for his first Premier League goal.

Neville Criticises Randal Kolo Muani

Neville, speaking on live Sky Sports coverage, branded Kolo Muani’s first-half display a ‘problem’ for Spurs, who have been a man down since Xavi Simons’ red card in the 33rd minute.

“Kolo Muani is a willing runner. He's not got a goal yet, and that is a problem.

“Tottenham have been struggling at home, so it would be a great time for him to get his first Premier League goal.”

Kolo Muani has yet to register a goal involvement in his nine Premier League appearances for Spurs, seven of which were starts.

The Frenchman, who joined on a season-long loan from French champions Paris Saint-Germain, has scored his only two goals in the Champions League, coming in the 5-3 defeat to his parent club last month.

Kolo Muani also has two assists in the competition and has been used regularly by Frank amid Dominic Solanke’s continued absence.

The Spurs striker has been out of action since the end of August and underwent ankle surgery at the end of September, with his exact return date still unclear.

Tottenham Looking to End Dire Run

Tottenham have struggled for form in the Premier League recently, winning just twice in their last nine games under head coach Thomas Frank.

The Lilywhites have taken only five points from the last 18 available and are looking to climb out of the bottom half of the table today.

Frank’s side next visit Crystal Palace on Sunday, 28 December, in their final game of the year.

Fiorentina have approached Tottenham Hotspur sporting director Fabio Paratici to become their new head of football, GIVEMESPORT senior correspondent Fabrizio Romano has revealed.

The Serie A side are said to be in ongoing negotiations over the Italian executive’s arrival on a long-term deal and want Paratici to become a key part of their project.

Paratici only made his return to Tottenham in October, joining as joint sporting director alongside Johan Lange.

The 53-year-old first left Spurs in 2023 after losing an appeal in Italy against a 30-month ban for his role in alleged false accounting at his former club, Juventus.

Fiorentina Want to Hire Paratici

Romano, writing on X, revealed that Fiorentina are in ongoing talks to appoint Paratici as their new head of football, just over two months after he returned to Tottenham on 15 October.

Paratici first joined Spurs in 2021 and was responsible for signing the likes of Cristian Romero, Pedro Porro, Destiny Udogie and Dejan Kulusevski, as well as appointing manager Antonio Conte during his initial two-year stint in North London.

The Italian executive served as a consultant for Spurs for several months during his ban from football before making an official return earlier this season.

Paratici’s departure would mark another high-profile executive change in North London in recent months, following former chairman Daniel Levy’s exit in September.

Spurs appointed former Arsenal executive Vinai Venkatesham as CEO in April last year and are believed to be working on hiring Manchester City executive Carlos Raphael Moersen as head of football operations.

Thomas Frank Under Pressure at Spurs

Amid another looming change behind the scenes, uncertainty is also growing over Tottenham head coach Thomas Frank’s future at the club.

As GIVEMESPORT reported previously, the Danish tactician is under increasing pressure following a disappointing run of results, with Tottenham failing to win seven of their last nine Premier League games.

While the North London side are not expected to make an immediate decision on Frank’s future, the Dane reportedly ‘knows’ that results must improve soon to avoid a premature end to his time in North London.

Tottenham Hotspur are monitoring Barcelona goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen ahead of the January transfer window, according to reports.

The North London side are believed to have identified the 33-year-old Germany international as a potential replacement for Guglielmo Vicario and could make a move when the market reopens next month.

Barcelona are reportedly open to offers for Ter Stegen next month now that the shot-stopper has returned from his lengthy spell on the sidelines.

Ter Stegen made his first appearance of the season in Barcelona’s Copa del Rey win over Guadalajara on Tuesday, starting a game for the Catalans for the first time since May.

Tottenham Eyeing Move for Ter Stegen

According to TEAMtalk, Tottenham are preparing for another busy transfer window, with head coach Thomas Frank prioritising the signing of a new goalkeeper.

Spurs reportedly have concerns over Vicario’s performances this season, as he has faced heavy criticism for recent errors and a lack of confidence between the posts.

Ter Stegen could emerge as a viable option next month now that he has returned from injury, with Barcelona’s head coach prioritising summer signing Joan Garcia in goal.

With former Arsenal shot-stopper Wojciech Szczesny serving as deputy, Ter Stegen is very much a third-choice option for Flick and is reportedly available in January.

Ter Stegen has been dealing with injury problems for the majority of the past 18 months, making just nine appearances for Barcelona since the start of last season.

The Germany international, praised as ‘one of the best goalkeepers in the world’, last featured for his country during the Nations League finals in June.

Vicario Could Leave in 2026

Tottenham’s emerging plans to sign a new goalkeeper could be boosted by Vicario’s departure next year, with the Italian reportedly a target for clubs back in his home country.

The Udine-born keeper has been Spurs’ first choice in goal ever since joining from Serie A side Empoli in the summer of 2023, making 97 appearances and keeping 25 clean sheets to date.

He was forced to miss over three months following an ankle injury last season, which saw Spurs bring in Antonin Kinsky in January as an emergency addition in goal. The Czech international has made two appearances for Spurs this season.

Thomas Frank Facing Uncertain Future

Tottenham have won just twice in their last nine Premier League games and their dismal run of results has intensified pressure on Frank.