Tottenham Hotspur defender Micky van de Ven has publicly revealed the details of a private text message he sent to Liverpool's Alexander Isak, following the serious injury the striker sustained during their recent Premier League clash.
The Challenge That Led to a Major Setback
The incident occurred during Liverpool's 2-1 victory over Tottenham at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. While scoring the opening goal for the Reds, Isak was caught by a challenge from van de Ven. The aftermath was severe: the Swedish international suffered an ankle injury and a fractured fibula, requiring surgery. He is now expected to be sidelined for several months at a minimum, a significant blow for the player and his club.
"I Didn't Want to Injure Him": Van de Ven's Regret
Speaking to Sky Sports, the Dutch centre-back explained his decision to reach out. "Yeah, I've text him. Of course," van de Ven stated. "I've sent him a text because I didn't want to injure him, I didn't want to do something to hurt him." He described the moment as unfortunate, saying, "I just tried to block the shot and I think it was a bit unlucky how his foot landed between my legs."
Van de Ven's message was one of support and apology. "I want to wish him all the best in his recovery. That's what I said to him. And I hope we can see him back on the pitch very soon again." When asked if Isak replied, van de Ven confirmed, "Yeah, he really appreciated the message. He texted back." While the exact wording of Isak's response remains private, it is understood the Liverpool striker accepted the gesture.
Isak's Road to Recovery and Slot's Confidence
The injury represents another frustrating hurdle for Alexander Isak, Liverpool's £125million record signing from Newcastle United, who has faced challenges in establishing himself consistently at Anfield. However, Liverpool head coach Arne Slot remains optimistic about the player's return this season.
"Yeah, [he'll play again this season]. I'm confident," Slot asserted. He acknowledged the difficulty of Isak's situation, noting the striker was just beginning to show his best form. "We all saw with a goal against West Ham, and with this goal [vs Tottenham], that he got closer and closer to the player he was at Newcastle." For now, Isak's sole focus will be on a rigorous rehabilitation programme to regain full fitness.
