Liverpool's talismanic centre-back Virgil Van Dijk is facing a significant period on the sidelines with anterior cruciate ligament damage.
The Dutch centre-back was injured in a collision with Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford in Saturday's Merseyside derby.
"Liverpool FC can confirm Virgil van Dijk will undergo surgery on the knee injury he sustained during Saturday’s 2-2 draw at Everton," confirmed a club statement.
"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."
Virgil Van Dijk
Trailing 1-0 to an early Sadio Mane goal, the Everton 'keeper lunged leg-first at van Dijk as the defender moved in on the Everton goal.
To the great concern of Liverpool fans, the Dutch centre-half was deemed incapable of continuing on and was replaced by Joe Gomez, and their worst fears have been confirmed by the scan carried out by the club.
For most watching today's Merseyside derby, the decision was met with incredulity.
Liverpool's Virgil van Dijk (right) is challenged by Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford during the Premier League match at Goodison Park, Liverpool.
Shortly after van Dijk was forced from the field of play, Michael Keane equalised for Carlo Ancelotti's side and the score currently stands at 1-1.
You can keep up to date with all of today's Premier League action on OTBSports.com right here.
More to follow...
Download the brand new OTB Sports App in the Play Store & App Store right now! We've got you covered!
Subscribe to Off The Ball's YouTube channel for more videos, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter for the latest sporting news and content.
