Liverpool are waiting to learn the extent of Cody Gakpo's injury after the forward was forced off during the Netherlands' match against Serbia. The concern follows a heavy challenge from Serbia's Sasa Lukic, with Gakpo substituted a few minutes later.
Football injury analyst Physio Scout said the mechanism of the challenge raises concern for a syndesmosis or high ankle sprain, and that scans will need to rule out any lower-leg fractures. Gakpo has since returned to Liverpool, where the club should shortly gain a clearer picture of his condition after Netherlands boss Xavi shared his hope that it is nothing too serious.
Van Dijk's faith repaid
Liverpool have benefited from their decision to retain Gakpo, who was linked with both Tottenham and Manchester City over the summer. This follows his club and international teammate Virgil van Dijk singing the forward's praises when it looked as though a deadline day deal might go through.
"What do you think? He's a quality player," Van Dijk said in August when asked if he wanted Gakpo to stay after the arrival of Bradley Barcola. "I think we should keep quality players. Let's see what the next few days bring. I want him to stay not only because he's a quality player but also because he's a friend of mine. He's very important for us."
Gakpo has already contributed two goals and four assists in just six club appearances this season despite the addition of competition across the forward line. This suggests the captain's judgement has proved well-founded.
