Liverpool cling on as Alexander Isak damage casts lengthy shadow
Liverpool emerged from Saturday’s tense victory over Tottenham with factors secured and nerves frayed. A slender two one win saved momentum ticking below Arne Slot, but the night was overshadowed by concern for Alexander Isak, whose newest setback threatens to stall a tough begin to life at Anfield.
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Signed for a British report price on deadline day, Isak’s Liverpool profession has but to seek out easy rhythm. There have been flashes of sophistication, moments of promise and extended intervals of frustration. In opposition to Spurs, he delivered considered one of his clearest contributions thus far, breaking the impasse shortly after half time with a end that spoke of composure and intuition. It was solely his third aim for the membership, a statistic that underlines each the scrutiny he faces and the persistence being examined.
That aim, nonetheless, got here at a heavy value. Isak barely had time to show and acknowledge the second earlier than he was left writhing on the turf. The sight of a stretcher being summoned silenced the away finish. Though he finally walked off with assist from Liverpool’s physios, the nervousness lingered lengthy after the ultimate whistle.
Alexander Isak second turns to concern
The instant worry centred on Isak’s knee. Liverpool supporters have seen this story unfold earlier than, and infrequently with a comforting ending. Giovanni Leoni’s season was ended by a critical knee damage earlier within the marketing campaign, and the concept of one other long run absence is one Slot might sick afford.
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Isak’s frustration was clear. Having battled kind, health and expectation since his arrival, this aim felt like a turning level. As a substitute, it reopened questions on sturdiness and luck. Even so, his willingness to remain concerned and the sharpness of his motion earlier than the problem supplied a reminder of why Liverpool invested so closely in him.
Photograph: IMAGO
Ian Wright raises alarm bells
Former Arsenal striker Ian Wright did little to ease issues when providing his evaluation after the match. Chatting with premierleague.com, Wright acknowledged the standard of the aim however centered shortly on the damage itself.
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“It was good play from Liverpool after which a really medical end,” praised the previous England worldwide.
“You anticipate him to take the prospect and it’s unlucky what has occurred to him, he appears to have damage his knee.”
Wright’s phrases carried weight, not as a analysis however as an skilled observer. Knee accidents are not often handled calmly, and Liverpool followers know too nicely how shortly optimism can flip into months of rehabilitation.
Arne Slot faces anxious wait
Consideration now turns to Arne Slot, whose submit match updates have grow to be required viewing this season. Liverpool don’t play once more for per week, providing a small window for evaluation and restoration. The very fact Isak managed to hobble off slightly than be stretchered away supplies some hope, as does the likelihood that Micky van de Ven’s problem triggered a heavy impression slightly than structural harm.
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Slot has persistently spoken about managing adversity, and his aspect as soon as once more confirmed resolve to see out a nervy contest. But accidents proceed to form Liverpool’s narrative. If Isak is pressured into one other spell on the sidelines, it will deepen what has already been a depressing run for the 26 12 months outdated.
For now, Liverpool wait. They anticipate scans, for readability and for reassurance that considered one of their costliest signings can construct on a uncommon vibrant second slightly than be set again as soon as extra. The win over Tottenham will probably be remembered for its stress, however the coming days could outline its true value.