An injury expert has provided an initial verdict on the problem Alexander Isak picked up during Liverpool’s tense 2-1 win over Tottenham Hotspur in north London.
The Sweden international was brought on by Arne Slot at a pivotal moment in the match, with Spurs already down to ten men after Xavi Simons was sent off before half-time. Isak made an instant impact, breaking the deadlock by racing onto a perfectly timed through ball from Florian Wirtz and calmly slotting past the Spurs goalkeeper to put Liverpool ahead.
However, the goal came at a cost. As Isak struck the ball, his standing leg was caught between the legs of Micky van de Ven, who had thrown himself into a desperate sliding attempt to block the shot. The collision left Isak clearly distressed, resulting in a prolonged pause as Liverpool’s medical staff treated him on the pitch.
Despite several minutes of attention, the 26-year-old was unable to carry on and eventually had to be helped off, with Jeremie Frimpong taking his place. Although Hugo Ekitike later sealed the victory for Liverpool — with Richarlison scoring a late consolation for Spurs — the focus quickly shifted to concerns over Isak’s injury.
Following the match, injury analysis platform Physio Scout examined footage of the incident and explained the potential risks associated with such challenges. They noted that scissor-type tackles are particularly hazardous because they force the ankle and knee into unnatural and vulnerable positions.
According to Physio Scout, this type of impact commonly raises concerns over a high or medial ankle sprain, caused by excessive rotation and outward movement of the ankle. They also pointed to the fibula as a possible area of damage due to the direct contact involved.
In their assessment, they stated:
“Scissor-tackle mechanisms often create concern for a high or medial ankle sprain, typically from forced eversion and rotation. The fibula is also frequently affected because of direct impact.
“These challenges can also place significant stress on the knee, particularly through forced valgus movement, which may affect the MCL. While the ACL can also be involved, this is considered less likely.”
Given the range of injuries linked to this kind of collision, Isak could be facing a prolonged absence. High ankle sprains usually require between eight and 10 weeks to heal, while medial ankle sprains can take two to six weeks. If the medial collateral ligament is damaged, recovery could range from a fortnight to as long as three months, depending on severity.
Physio Scout suggested that a high ankle sprain is the most likely diagnosis, which would potentially sideline Isak for at least two months. That would be a major blow for the striker, who has already struggled with fitness since arriving at Anfield in the summer and is still trying to find consistency.
Liverpool are now waiting on further medical tests to determine the full extent of the injury. Speaking after the game, Slot admitted he had no definitive update but conceded that the situation did not look encouraging.
“I don’t have any information yet,” Slot said in his post-match press conference. “But when a player scores and then has to come off without even attempting to continue, that’s usually worrying.
“Conor Bradley tried to carry on but couldn’t, so I had to take him off. When someone doesn’t even try to return, it often tells you something. That’s just my feeling, not a medical opinion. I haven’t spoken to him yet.”
Further assessments in the coming days will reveal how long Liverpool may be without their striker, as fans await official confirmation from the club’s medical staff.
