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Publication date: Monday, October 19, 2020 7:19 AM
Virgil van Dijk’s knee injury has “diverted the title race” and seriously damages Liverpool’s chances, according to Jamie Carragher.
The defending Reds talisman has he tore his anterior cruciate ligament and now faces several months on the sidelines.
This is another blow for Liverpool, who no longer have the starting goalkeeper, Alisson Becker, due to injury. Alisson and Van Dijk are widely regarded as the two signings that made Liverpool title winners.
As of Saturday, Van Dijk had a near flawless injury record at Liverpool. The imposing Dutchman has started the last 94 Premier League games. He is a very influential figure in his defense and wardrobe. A captain in everything but name.
Now Sky sports pandit Carragher He admits that a Liverpool defense without Van Dijk could cost them dearly.
“I think the big question you ask yourself now: can Liverpool win the league without Van Dijk?
“I think every title-winning team has three or four players that no matter who your coach is or how big your team is, you can’t cover them, they are exceptional.
“I think it opens the race for the title. I still thought that at the beginning of this season Liverpool were the team to beat. But I think with van Dijk waiting for what seems like the entire season now, I think everything will be ready. “
Liverpool now only have Joe Gomez and Joel Matip as recognized senior center-halves. Both have also had injury issues in recent years.
Liverpool can also play Fabinho in the central half if necessary. It was his versatility that prompted Jurgen Klopp to put aside plans to sign a new defender this summer.
Carragher, however, is convinced that the Reds must enter the market as soon as possible to sign a replacement.
“I think Liverpool will have to go on the market in January and not only because of Van Dijk’s injury, but they were weak in that area anyway,” he added.
“They lost [Dejan] Lovren and the other players in those positions are very prone to injury.
“Devastating news for van Dijk, but for Liverpool and Klopp it will immediately be ‘who can we get in?’
“They have to be ready on January 1 to bring whoever they want into that area because that could prevent them from achieving what they want to achieve.”
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Van Dijk emission statement
Van Dijk issued a statement Sunday night in which he vowed to come back stronger than ever.
“This afternoon I met with a leading consultant to begin the process of planning the finer details of my rehabilitation after yesterday’s incident,” he posted on Twitter.
“Now I am fully focused on my recovery and will do my best to get back as quickly as possible.
“Despite the obvious disappointment, I firmly believe that within the difficulties lies the opportunity. With God’s help, I will make sure I come back better, fitter, and stronger than ever.
“In football, as in life, I think everything happens for a reason. It is important to try to keep your sanity, whether you go through the highs or the lows. With the support of my wife, my children, my family and everyone in Liverpool, I am ready for the challenge that lies ahead.
“I would like to thank everyone for the messages of support, it has meant a lot to me and my family.
“Now I will do my best to support my teammates in whatever way I can before the big weeks ahead as I make my own day-to-day recovery. I’ll be right back.”
READ MORE: Liverpool star Thiago to miss Champions League opener after derby injury
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