Virgil van Dijk has vowed to return stronger than ever as the Liverpool defender faces up to the prospect of missing the remainder of the 2020/21 season. – By Enock Mukoma
The Dutchman is to undergo knee surgery after suffering damage to his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) as a result of a horror challenge from Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford in the 2-2 draw in Saturday’s Merseyside derby.
Pickford, England’s No.1, was fortunate to escape a red card after scything Van Dijk down in the box.
Van Dijk went to hospital on Sunday where he underwent scans to determine the extent of the injury and it has now been confirmed that he has suffered ACL damage.
The Netherlands international will undergo surgery and is now facing many months on the sidelines.
Van Dijk released a statement on Sunday night in which he wrote: “This afternoon I met with a leading consultant to start the process of planning the finer details of my rehabilitation following the incident yesterday.
“I’m now fully focused on my recovery and will do everything I can to be back as quickly as possible.
“Despite the obvious disappointment I’m a firm believer that within difficulty lies opportunity and with God’s help I’m going to make sure I return better, fitter and stronger than ever before.
“In football, as in life, I believe everything happens for a reason and it’s important to try and keep level headed whether going through the highs or the lows. With the support of my wife, kids, family and everyone at Liverpool, I’m ready for the challenge ahead.
“I’d like to thank everyone for the messages of support, it’s meant a huge amount to me and my family, and I’ll now be doing everything possible to support my team-mates in any way I can ahead of a big few weeks ahead as I take my own recovery day by day. I’ll be back.”
Liverpool retain some hope Van Dijk will play again this season given his previously excellent fitness record but an ACL injury typically requires up to eight months to fully heal.
A statement from the club read: “Liverpool FC can confirm Virgil van Dijk will undergo surgery on the knee injury he sustained during Saturday’s 2-2 draw at Everton.
“The centre-back damaged knee ligaments following an incident involving Blues goalkeeper Jordan Pickford after six minutes at Goodison Park.
“Van Dijk was required to be substituted and further assessment on the injury has revealed an operation will be needed.
“No specific timescale is being placed upon his return to action at this stage.
“Following surgery, Van Dijk will begin a rehabilitation programme with the club’s medical team to enable him to reach full fitness as soon as possible.”
