Image Credits: Imago Images
Liverpool’s win at Tottenham felt important for more than just the league table. The Premier League does not slow down. December games come fast. Squad depth matters as much as form. Liverpool went to north London knowing momentum was building, but also knowing this part of the season exposes every weakness.
The match itself showed that clearly. Liverpool scored, defended under pressure, and survived a late push. Spurs were reduced to nine men, yet the final minutes still felt uncomfortable. That alone says a lot about the competition Liverpool are in. Every point is earned. Every absence carries weight.
There was also a familiar frustration. Just as one attacking option showed signs of settling, there was another injury moment to manage. Liverpool have already had to juggle availability in wide areas. Africa Cup of Nations will soon take Mohamed Salah away. Cody Gakpo is still working back from a muscle issue. These are not abstract problems. They affect how Arne Slot plans his weeks.
This is where the wider picture comes in. The Premier League is not forgiving. Depth is tested quickly. January often becomes less about ambition and more about survival. Liverpool do not like panic buys. But circumstances sometimes force decisions.
That reality became clearer once details emerged. Alexander Isak was injured in the act of scoring against Tottenham. He was caught by Micky van de Ven and could not celebrate. He was helped off by two members of Liverpool’s medical staff and has yet to undergo an MRI scan. Liverpool fear the injury to his lower leg could be significant.
According to The Athletic, “Further scans will reveal the full extent of Isak’s injury, but there has to be a chance that Liverpool may now be forced to move in the January transfer window. A versatile forward who can play as a No.9 and in wide areas would make more sense that a like-for-like replacement as attacking depth in wide areas is also low. Finding a player of the required level and for a sensible fee will be the challenge. Antoine Semenyo, who has a £65million release clause, is admired by Liverpool and can operate on both flanks but has only played a handful of games as a No.9 for Bournemouth.”
After the match, Arne Slot tried to strike a calm tone. “I haven’t spoken to him about it yet but it’s a good thing he scored, a good goal assisted by Florian Wirtz,” he said. Slot stressed development. “I said players are getting better, the team is getting better.” He also admitted the game was not smooth. “It wasn’t perfect today, especially the last 10 minutes but we pick up points and are developing in a way I want to see.”
Slot urged patience. “That’s what we’d like to see happening a lot. A good finish, a good pass.” Then came the key line. “Let’s not be too negative yet. We don’t know yet, let’s hope he is back with us soon.”
If Isak is ruled out, Liverpool may have to act. Not for luxury. For balance. A versatile forward who can cover central and wide roles could become a necessity rather than a choice.
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