The Dutch defender is set to undergo surgery that could keep him out of action for the rest of the season. Liverpool could be without center back Virgil van Dijk for the remainder of the season, a report from England has indicated. The 29-year-old Dutch defender is set to undergo surgery following the knee injury he picked up against Everton in Saturday's Merseyside derby.
Van Dijk was forced off in the first half after colliding with the Toffee's goalkeeper Jordan Pickford in the 2-2 draw at the Goodison Park. While there were shouts for the latter to be sanctioned with a penalty and a sending off, a VAR decision prevented that from happening after it was revealed that the Liverpool defender's was marginally offside in the build-up.
Medical examination performed on van Dijk after the incident confirmed that he had suffered an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury. A statement released by Liverpool on Sunday indicated that the player will be having a surgery in the coming days.
"Liverpool FC can confirm Virgil van Dijk will undergo surgery on the knee injury he sustained during Saturday's 2-2 draw at Everton," it read.
"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."
Multiple reports from the English media have stated that the defender would most likely miss the remainder of the season despite Liverpool's reluctance to put a timescale on his return. He is expected to be out for at least eight months, and could as well miss out on the opportunity to play for the Netherlands in Euro 2020.
