Tottenham manager Thomas Frank has rejected claims that Micky van de Ven’s challenge on Alexander Isak was reckless, insisting the incident was a natural defensive reaction in a high-speed situation.
Frank backed his defender after the tackle left Isak injured during Liverpool’s win over Tottenham, pushing back against criticism that emerged following the match.
Isak, who is of Eritrean heritage, was hurt in the act of scoring Liverpool’s opening goal on Saturday. The forward had his foot planted as Van de Ven attempted to recover and block the shot, an action that resulted in serious injury.
The Swedish international has since undergone surgery and is expected to be sidelined for around three months, a major blow for Liverpool.
Liverpool manager Arne Slot described the challenge as reckless after the game, noting Isak’s misfortune and the impact of losing a player valued at £125 million.
Frank, however, took a contrasting view when addressing the incident in his latest press conference, arguing that the context of the play was being overlooked.
“Obviously I am disagreeing. In many ways, we are talking about a defender that will do everything to avoid conceding the goal. It’s a transition so he is sprinting back in. There’s a ball slid down in the side, and he does everything he can to block that shot.
“Unfortunately, Isak has planted his foot straight there, which makes it look worse than it is. That would be a natural reaction for any defender.
Or, put it this way, if my defender doesn’t do that,
“I don’t think they are true defenders. I don’t see that at all. I think reckless challenges, normally, you haven’t seen any from Micky, as I remember it. I see him as a very fair and competitive player. That’s one thing. I also know the two players have sorted it out so that’s a good sign.”
The incident has continued to generate debate as Liverpool assess their options during Isak’s absence.
Reports suggest Bournemouth winger Antoine Semenyo has emerged as a potential target, with the 25-year-old linked with a move to Anfield as a possible replacement next month.
