Liverpool handed major injury blow as 24-year-old set for spell on the sidelines

Liverpool star Cody Gakpo set for extended period on the sidelines

Liverpool and their attacking prowess will be without Cody Gakpo for an extended period as he faces an injury setback. The Netherlands international, who has been in fine form, will see himself sidelined until after the upcoming international break.

Gakpo’s injury woes began during Saturday’s contentious clash against Tottenham Hotspur, where Liverpool experienced a tumultuous 2-1 defeat. Prior to the start of the second half, Gakpo was forced to leave the pitch due to discomfort in his knee. His exit from the stadium was notable, as he wore a brace to support the affected area.

Thankfully, a subsequent scan has provided some relief for Liverpool, as it indicates that Gakpo will not face an extended spell on the sidelines. However, he will miss the upcoming fixtures, including the Europa League clash against Union Saint-Gilloise at Anfield and the Premier League trip to Brighton on Sunday. That is via James Pearce of The Athletic [subscription required].

Liverpool star Cody Gakpo set for extended period on the sidelines.

The club is cautiously optimistic that Gakpo’s recovery will proceed as planned, and there is hope that he will return to action after the international break as per Pearce. Liverpool face Everton on October 21, and the 24-year-old’s potential availability for this crucial fixture would be a significant boost.

No Gakpo for a while

Manager Jurgen Klopp, reflecting on the injury to Gakpo, referred to it as his “biggest problem” on a day filled with various challenges. Liverpool endured a series of unfortunate events during the match, including the disallowed goal by Luis Diaz for an incorrect offside call, the dismissals of Curtis Jones and Diogo Jota, and the late winner conceded through Joel Matip’s own goal.

Gakpo’s absence will undoubtedly be felt by the team, as he has been a valuable contributor, scoring three goals this season from eight appearances this season.

His injury occurred following a challenge from Destiny Udogie, but not before he managed to fire home Liverpool’s equalizer just before the halftime whistle.