Micky van de Ven had spoken to Alexander Isak after leg-breaking tackle.
Micky van de Ven has revealed that Alexander Isak appreciated his apology message following the tackle that resulted in the Liverpool forward’s broken leg during Saturday’s 2-1 Premier League clash.
Isak underwent surgery on Monday to repair an ankle injury, which included a fractured left fibula, after being caught by Van de Ven’s heavy challenge while scoring Liverpool’s opening goal at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium over the weekend.
Liverpool manager Arne Slot described the tackle as “reckless,” though Tottenham boss Thomas Frank dismissed that characterization on Tuesday afternoon. Van de Ven has now opened up about the conversation he had with Isak after the severity of the injury became apparent.
Micky van de Ven and Alexander Isak
Micky van de Ven and Alexander Isak
Speaking to Sky Sports, the Dutch defender explained his decision to reach out privately to Isak following the incident. He said (h/t The Mirror):
“Yeah, I’ve texted him, of course. I sent him a text because I didn’t want to injure him. I didn’t want to do something to hurt him, of course. I just wanted to try to block the shot.”
Van de Ven insisted the injury was unfortunate rather than malicious, with the manner of the collision proving decisive in causing the fracture.
“And I think it was a bit unlucky how his foot landed between my legs. So yeah, I sent him a text afterwards, and I wanted to wish him all the best for his recovery. That’s what I said to him.”
Alexander Isak’s response to Micky van de Ven
The Tottenham defender revealed that Isak responded positively to his message, acknowledging the gesture despite the serious injury he sustained.
“He really appreciated the message. He texted back.”
Van de Ven’s willingness to take responsibility and reach out immediately demonstrates maturity and sportsmanship in what could have been an awkward situation. The fact that Isak responded gratefully suggests the Liverpool striker accepts the challenge was not intentional, despite the devastating consequences.
https://twitter.com/AnfieldSector/status/2003606766244724778?s=20
Isak’s surgery on Monday addressed the fractured fibula and ankle damage, though Liverpool have not yet provided a timeline for his return. The Sweden international had just started to find his stride in the Liverpool shirt, making the injury a significant blow to Slot’s attacking options.
For Van de Ven, the incident adds to a difficult period for Tottenham, who are struggling in the bottom half of the Premier League table. While cleared of any malicious wrongdoing, the Dutch defender will hope Isak makes a swift recovery and returns to action soon.