Liverpool have been handed a significant blow in the defence of their Premier League title following the news that Virgil van Dijk will be sidelined for an extended period.
The Dutch defender was forced off during the early exchanges of Liverpoo l's 2-2 draw with Everton in the Merseyside derby, when the score was still 1-0 after Sadio Mane's opener.
A clattering challenge from Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford, which has been widely condemned, forced the central defender off the field.
Liverpool went on to draw 2-2 in another fiercely contested derby at Goodison Park, where midfielder Thiago also picked up an injury.
However, it is Van Dijk who will be the most significant loss as the former Southampton man is now set for an extended stint on the sidelines.
The full timescale of Van Dijk's absence is unable to be identified as a large part of it hinders on how the Dutchman's recovery progresses after surgery.
While he could still play for Jurgen Klopp's side before the end of the campaign, it is simply too early to give a definitive verdict either way.
It is, of course, a huge blow to Liverpool and the defence of the Premier League title, with Van Dijk being an integral part of the side that has won the Champions League and Premier League in recent seasons.
Indeed, many believe his signing was the turning point in Liverpool's transition and many fans have taken to social media to express their thoughts on the situation:
Van Dijk's first match on the sidelines will be in the Champions League against Ajax in midweek.
Following that, the Reds have a Premier League clash against Sheffield United next weekend.
