Liverpool confirm extent of Van Dijk injury following Pickford clash

Liverpool have confirmed that Virgil van Dijk is set to undergo surgery on the knee injury he picked up in Saturday’s Merseyside Derby.

The influential defender was absolutely clattered by Everton ‘keeper Jordan Pickford in just the sixth minute of the 2-2 draw at Goodison Park on Saturday forcing the 29-year-old to be replaced, with the England number one inexplicably not receiving any kind of punishment whatsoever.

Speculation quickly surfaced after the game that the Dutchman had suffered a season-ending injury to his ACL, and while Liverpool haven’t put any timescale on a potential return for their star defender, they have confirmed that he will require surgery and what is likely to be a lengthy spell of rehabilitation.

“Liverpool FC can confirm Virgil van Dijk will undergo surgery on the knee injury he sustained during Saturday’s 2-2 draw at Everton,” a statement reads.

“He could have easily been sent off.”

“I’m very surprised it’s just been forgotten about?”

Jordan Pickford’s challenge on Virgil van Dijk did not look good 😬

Should VAR have stepped in after this? pic.twitter.com/wTcW6CHcIf

— Football on BT Sport (@btsportfootball) October 17, 2020

“The centre-back damaged knee ligaments following an incident involving Blues goalkeeper Jordan Pickford after six minutes at Goodison Park.

“Van Dijk was required to be substituted and further assessment on the injury has revealed an operation will be needed.

“No specific timescale is being placed upon his return to action at this stage.

“Following surgery, Van Dijk will begin a rehabilitation programme with the club’s medical team to enable him to reach full fitness as soon as possible.”

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