Liverpool have made changes to the advertising hoardings at Anfield following the serious thumb injury sustained by Galatasaray forward Noa Lang during a Champions League match last month. The 26-year-old suffered a deep cut after crashing into a hoarding while chasing a ball that went out of play in the 4-0 defeat.
Lang received lengthy treatment on the pitch and was taken to Whiston Hospital for emergency surgery, still on a stretcher, 45 minutes after the final whistle. The incident prompted an investigation by Liverpool and UEFA officials into the hoarding involved.
According to The Athletic, modifications have now been made to some boards around the goal areas, incorporating an impact gap to reduce the risk of similar injuries. Liverpool consider the incident a freak accident but hope the changes will prevent a repeat.
Speaking to Dutch outlet Ziggo Sport, Lang said: “I still have it (my thumb) completely, that’s the most important thing. I just can’t play PlayStation for a while, but that will come. Luckily, I only need my legs to be able to play football.”
Galatasaray filed an official complaint with UEFA and are considering legal action for compensation. Club doctor Yener Ince confirmed the injury was significant but not a complete amputation, and that Lang underwent a successful operation in Liverpool.
