Liverpool face up to long season without Van Dijk

Liverpool’s Premier League title defence was rocked on Sunday when the club confirmed key defender Virgil van Dijk has suffered knee ligament damage amid reports the Dutchman could miss the rest of the season.

Van Dijk, who will require surgery, hobbled off after a shocking challenge from Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford in a 2-2 draw in the Merseyside derby on Saturday.

“The center-back damaged knee ligaments following an incident involving Blues goalkeeper, Jordan Pickford after six minutes at Goodison Park,” Liverpool said in a statement.

“No specific timescale is being placed upon his return to action at this stage.”