It was meant to be a celebration, but Alexander Isak’s brief moment of glory quickly turned into a collective gasp from Liverpool supporters.
Just after scoring his second Premier League goal since his massive £125 million move from Newcastle, Isak collapsed to the turf, clutching his leg and grimacing in pain.
Fans were left holding their breaths as he pulled his shirt over his face, the universal sign of distress.
As he limped off the pitch, the frustration was evident—not just from the injury, but from the string of bad luck that seems to follow him.
Early reports suggested scans would determine the severity of the lower-leg injury, and goalkeeper Alisson offered a cautiously optimistic view, saying he “thinks he will be OK.”
Despite the momentary scare, there’s hope that Isak could be back in action soon, possibly in time for the home clash with Wolves next week.
A Glimpse of What Liverpool Paid For
Before the injury drama unfolded, Isak’s 14-minute cameo offered a tantalizing reminder of why Liverpool invested so heavily in him.
His first months at Anfield have been underwhelming, but Arne Slot is taking the long-term view: “We have signed him for six years, not six months.”
That 55th-minute goal, however, showcased Isak’s quality—his movement, timing, and clinical finish were a glimpse of the player the Reds hope he will become.
Wirtz Finally Making His Mark
Florian Wirtz’s clever assist for Isak’s goal highlighted the potential firepower Liverpool has in this £241 million duo.
Picking out Isak with a disguised pass and setting him up for a smooth finish, Wirtz reminded fans why his arrival was so hyped.
While he still has some way to go to reach the form he showed at Bayer Leverkusen, his vision, movement, and ability to pull defenders out of position are showing promise.
Fans have waited patiently, but Wirtz’s performance just before Christmas suggests better days are coming.
Frimpong Offers a Fresh Dynamic
Jeremie Frimpong also made his return, though briefly sidelined with a busted lip.
The Dutch right-back has been plagued by injuries since joining Liverpool, but his explosive style along the flank is unmistakable.
Frimpong’s return, following a two-month hamstring absence, shows that he can inject creativity and energy into Slot’s system.
His ability to score and assist at an astonishing rate in Germany—19 goals and 24 assists over the last two seasons—suggests he could bring a unique edge to Liverpool’s attack once fully fit.
Slot also has Conor Bradley as an alternative at right-back, showing the Reds have depth in that position, though the priority is getting both players match-ready.
Ekitike Reminds Fans That Goals Matter Most
Hugo Ekitike may not dominate possession or make flashy plays every game, but he knows where the goal is—an invaluable trait for a striker.
His headed finish in this match extended his recent hot streak, bringing him to five goals in the last three league games.
Like Erling Haaland, Ekitike demonstrates that a striker can influence a match without constant touches, simply by being in the right place at the right time.
His all-around abilities, combined with clinical finishing, are proving vital for Liverpool’s forward line.
What’s Next for Liverpool?
Despite the scare with Isak and minor injuries to Frimpong and Bradley, Liverpool showed glimpses of their potential in this match.
Isak’s goal, Wirtz’s creativity, Frimpong’s energy, and Ekitike’s finishing provide hope that, once fully fit, this squad can deliver the performances fans have been waiting for.
Now it’s a matter of keeping players healthy and building momentum as they approach the busy holiday fixtures.
Share on Facebook «||» Share on Twitter «||» Share on Reddit «||» Share on LinkedIn