Micky van de Ven Texts Apology to Alexander Isak After Tackle Causes Fractured Leg in Tottenham-Liverpool Clash

Tottenham Hotspur defender **Micky van de Ven** has publicly apologized to Liverpool striker **Alexander Isak** after a challenge that resulted in a serious injury. The incident occurred during Liverpool's 2-1 victory over Tottenham on December 20, 2025, at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Isak, who had joined Liverpool in a British record £125 million transfer from Newcastle United earlier that year, scored the opening goal but was immediately felled by van de Ven's sliding tackle.

The Dutch defender lunged desperately to block Isak's shot, but the Swede's planted foot became trapped in a scissor-like motion between van de Ven's legs. Isak, unable to celebrate his goal, signaled immediately for medical attention and was helped off the pitch in visible pain. Scans later confirmed a fractured fibula and ankle damage, requiring successful surgery on December 22. Liverpool manager Arne Slot described the absence as lasting "a couple of months," a significant blow to the Reds' title challenge, especially with other attackers unavailable.

Slot did not hold back in his criticism, labeling the tackle "reckless." He contrasted it with an earlier red card for Tottenham's Xavi Simons, calling van de Ven's challenge one that carried a high risk of serious injury if repeated. Tottenham boss Thomas Frank defended his player vigorously, insisting it was a "natural reaction" for a defender sprinting back to prevent a goal and that Isak's foot placement made it appear worse than intended.

Amid the managerial war of words, van de Ven took a classy step forward. Speaking to Sky Sports at Tottenham's Junior Supporters' Christmas Party, the 24-year-old revealed he had personally messaged Isak. "I sent him a text because I didn’t want to injure him, or to do something to hurt him of course," van de Ven said. "I just wanted to try to block the shot. I think it was a bit unlucky how his foot landed between my legs. So I sent him a text afterwards and I wanted to wish him all the best for his recovery. He appreciated the message and texted back."