Jamie Carragher backs Micky van de Ven over challenge on Alexander Isak while Liverpool manager criticizes tackle
Jamie Carragher has come to the defence of Micky van de Ven following the challenge that injured Alexander Isak, while also conceding that the striker’s absence represents a major setback for Liverpool.
Isak was hurt as he scored Liverpool’s opening goal against Tottenham on Saturday. Van de Ven’s challenge saw him wrap his legs around the Swede’s left leg, leaving the forward in immediate distress. After receiving treatment, Isak was forced to limp off, and it was later confirmed on Monday night that he had suffered a fractured leg.
Speaking on Sky Sports, Carragher admitted the loss is significant, pointing out that Liverpool were already short of attacking options. He acknowledged criticism aimed at Tottenham’s challenges but insisted he understood Van de Ven’s actions, suggesting it was a challenge he himself might have made in a similar situation. According to Carragher, the defender was attempting to block the shot and the injury resulted from unfortunate follow-through rather than intent.
He described the incident as bad luck for Isak and noted that it had offered one of the first real glimpses of the striker’s quality in a Liverpool shirt.
Carragher does not believe the injury will drastically alter Liverpool’s plans in the January transfer window, highlighting the squad’s strength in wide areas under head coach Arne Slot. He suggested Mohamed Salah is now certain to remain at the club and hinted at a possible return for Harvey Elliott from Aston Villa.
With Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo linked to a move to Anfield, Carragher pointed out that Liverpool already have versatile attackers capable of playing centrally and insisted the club will not rush into signing a striker they are not fully convinced by.
Slot avoided discussing potential transfers during his Tuesday press conference but confirmed Isak is expected to be sidelined for several months. However, he was critical of Van de Ven’s tackle, describing it as reckless. The Liverpool boss argued that unlike some accidental challenges, this type of tackle carries a high risk of causing serious injury.