Liverpool head coach delivers verdict on Micky van de Ven’s tackle that injured Alexander Isak
Arne Slott said Micky van de Ven’s tackle on Alexander Isak was “reckless” as the Liverpool striker faces a long game. Isaac underwent surgery on Sunday after undergoing an MRI scan to determine the severity of his injuries.
Isak was initially named on the bench for Liverpool’s game against Spurs on Saturday, but was brought on at half-time and scored the opening goal 11 minutes after coming on to the pitch.
However, a tackle by Van de Ven in an attempt to prevent Isak from scoring resulted in the Liverpool striker being substituted off injured and requiring help to leave the pitch.
It was later confirmed that Isaac had suffered an ankle injury due to a fractured fibula and had undergone surgery in recent days.
read more: Liverpool’s seriously injured Arne Slott confirms Alexander Isak’s return dateread more: Liverpool receive immediate transfer order for Alexander Isak after his return deadline is confirmed
Slott was asked about Isak’s injury in a recent press conference, and Liverpool’s head coach made a judgment call about Van de Ven’s tackle.
“For me it was a reckless challenge. Xavi Simmons (the tackle on Virgil van Dijk) was completely unintentional,” Slott said. “I don’t think you can get hurt in a tackle like that.
“Van de Ven’s tackle, if you make that tackle 10 times, there’s a very good chance that a player will be seriously injured 10 times.”
Liverpool will now be without Isak for an extended period while the striker recovers from injury, leaving the Reds with several forward options.
The reigning Premier League champions are already without Mohamed Salah, who is with Egypt at the Africa Cup of Nations, and Kodi Gakpo is sidelined with injury.
Slott’s decision came after former Premier League referee Dermot Gallagher explained why he believed Van Deven’s tackle on Isak did not merit a red card.
“I don’t think he did anything that a footballer wouldn’t do,” Gallagher told Sky Sports Ref Watch. “I would be surprised if it came out as a red card anywhere on the field.
“Players always make mistime challenges. He’s a little behind… it’s not a red card. Whether it’s in the penalty area, in the D area, in the center circle or in the other half.”
Liverpool will look to continue their winning streak in the Premier League as they prepare to face Wolves at Anfield on Saturday.
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