Van de Ven Tackle: Frank Defends Højbjerg After Isak Foul
Alexander Isak Faces Months on Sidelines with Ankle Injury
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Newcastle United forward Alexander Isak sustained a fractured fibula during Saturday’s match against Tottenham Hotspur, an injury expected to keep him out for several months.the incident has sparked debate over the challenge that caused it.
Updated December 24, 2025, at 02:38 AM PST
Injury Details and Timeline
Isak, the Premier League’s most expensive player, suffered the injury while scoring an equalizing goal in the 2-1 victory over Tottenham. He was injured after a collision with Tottenham defender Micky van de Ven while sliding to finish the play. Newcastle manager Arne Slot confirmed the injury will sideline Isak for “a few months,” a significant blow to the team.
The injury involves a fractured fibula, a bone in the lower leg. Recovery timelines for such fractures vary depending on severity, but typically range from 8-12 weeks, potentially extending Isak’s absence well into the new year.
Controversy Surrounding the Tackle
Arne Slot expressed his displeasure with the tackle by Van de Ven, stating, ”The van de Ven procedure…if you do it ten times, there’s a high probability that ten times it will result in a serious injury.” He implied the challenge was reckless and carried an unnecessary risk of causing harm.
“A reckless challenge” ????
Arne Slot wasn’t happy with Micky van de Ven’s tackle which has left Alexander Isak out for “a couple of months”. pic.twitter.com/VkW6601HR7
– BBC Sport (@BBCSport) December 23, 2025
Tottenham coach Thomas Frank defended Van de Ven, arguing that the defender was simply attempting to prevent a goal. “Of course I don’t agree,” Frank said.”We’re talking about a defender here who wants to prevent a conceded goal. You could say that if my defender didn’t do that, then he wouldn’t be a real defender. Micky is not a reckless player.”
Isak’s Transfer and Impact
Isak joined Newcastle in September for a club-record fee of £125 million (approximately 3.5 billion Czech crowns) as reported by the BBC. His injury is a significant setback for both the player and the club, who invested heavily in his goal-scoring ability.
Prior to the injury, Isak had been in good form, demonstrating his value as a key attacking threat. His equalizing goal against Tottenham highlighted his ability to make a difference even as a substitute.
Looking Ahead
Newcastle United will face Wolverhampton Wanderers in their next Premier League match on Saturday without Isak. The team will need to adjust their attacking strategy in his absence. The long-term impact of isak’s injury on Newcastle’s season remains to be seen.