Liverpool have been handed another worrying injury setback during the international break, with Cody Gakpo forced off injured while representing the Netherlands against Serbia.
The Reds are now facing a nervous wait to discover the full extent of the forward’s injury, with a huge Premier League showdown against Manchester City fast approaching.
Gakpo forced off after heavy challenge
Gakpo started for the Netherlands but was unable to complete the match after being caught by a heavy challenge from Serbian midfielder Saša Lukić.
The Liverpool forward received treatment on the pitch following the tackle and attempted to continue, but he was visibly struggling and limping before eventually being substituted.
The incident appeared to involve heavy contact with Gakpo’s lower left leg and ankle area, immediately raising concerns among Liverpool supporters.
Medical staff will now assess the injury to determine whether Gakpo will be fit to return to club duty after the international break.
Another major concern for Liverpool
The timing could hardly be worse for Liverpool.
The Reds are preparing for a massive Premier League clash against Manchester City at Anfield, and Gakpo has been one of their key attacking players this season.
His ability to contribute goals, assists and creativity has made him an important part of Liverpool’s attacking setup. Losing him for such a crucial fixture would therefore represent a significant blow.
And Gakpo’s injury is not the only concern facing Liverpool.
Alexander Isak also facing fitness concerns
Liverpool are already monitoring the situation surrounding Alexander Isak after the Swedish striker was forced to withdraw from international duty with a thigh problem.
Isak returned early to Liverpool’s AXA Training Centre for further assessment and recovery after being ruled out by Sweden.
While the issue is reportedly not expected to be long-term, his absence from international duty has added another layer of uncertainty ahead of the Manchester City fixture.
Liverpool could therefore return from the international break with two of their important attacking options facing fitness battles.
Liverpool face nervous wait
With Manchester City heading to Anfield, Liverpool will be desperate for positive news from the medical team.
The club will now wait for further assessments on Gakpo before knowing whether the Dutchman can recover in time.
For Liverpool supporters, the biggest concern will be whether this is simply a precautionary substitution or something serious enough to keep the forward out of the Manchester City clash.
After an impressive start to the season, the Reds could now be forced to deal with a difficult attacking situation at exactly the wrong moment.
Liverpool fans will be hoping the injury is not as serious as it initially appeared.
