Liverpool player Virgil van Dijk uploaded an emotional message on Instagram social media after being confirmed to have an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury on Sunday (18/10).
Van Dijk was injured by ACL after being attacked by Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford in the Everton vs Liverpool match on Saturday (17/10). The incident occurred at the start of the first half.
After that clash, Van Dijk was unable to continue the match. Joe Gomez replaced his position in a match which ended in a 2-2 draw.
This injury forced Van Dijk to step onto the operating table which will take place in the near future. Even though he is threatened with being absent for a long time, Van Dijk is sure he will come back stronger than before.
“This afternoon I have met with a well-known consultant to begin detailed planning of my rehabilitation process following yesterday’s events. I am now fully focused on recovery and will do everything I can to get back as soon as possible,” wrote Van Dijk in a letter posted on his Instagram account.
“Despite the disappointments, I firmly believe in adversity there are opportunities and with God’s help I will make sure I can come back better, fitter and stronger than ever.”
“In football, just like life, I believe everything happens for a reason and it is important to try and stay calm through the ups and downs. With the support of my wife, kids, family and everyone at Liverpool, I am ready for the challenges ahead. “
“I want to thank everyone for the message of support, it means a lot to me and my family, and I will do everything possible to support my team-mates in any way that I can face these crucial weeks as I will live my recovery from day to day. I’ll be back. “
Van Dijk’s absence adds to the long line of problems for Liverpool coach Jurgen Klopp. Previously, the German coach had also lost Alisson Becker to injury for the next few weeks.
Van Dijk’s absence also leaves Liverpool with few options at the heart of defense. The Reds only have Gomez, Joel Matip, two young players Sepp van den Berg and Billy Koumetio.
