Jurgen Klopp has spoken positively of Virgil van Dijk’s continued recovery, but emphasised the long-term nature of the injury, as reported by the Echo (via Sunday World).
The Dutchman’s time on the sidelines follows a reckless challenge by goalkeeper Jordan Pickford in the Merseyside derby, which has left the defender with a likely return date for the end of the season.
“Virgil is a very positive person and since he overcame the shock of the actual injury, he is in a really good mood and working hard to get back,” Klopp said. “But this is a very long, long-term injury so it was still, I have to say, a crazy challenge which I still don’t understand. I don’t think about it, but you ask me and it comes up.”
As things stand, the No.4 is looking a major doubt for this Liverpool side any time sooner than the second-half of the season.
Given the severity of the 29-year-old’s injury, it would be hardly surprising if the Reds choose not to take even that risk until they were absolutely certain of his recovery.
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As far as we’re concerned, we’re hopeful that the German decides to dip into the transfer market to find a solution, particularly given Joel Matip’s recent injury woes.
We can’t afford to go into the next year without another senior centre-back to cushion the blow of Van Dijk’s and Joe Gomez’s continued absences.
With a host of quality defenders available on the market – some of whom Liverpool have been linked to – the club would be remiss not to take advantage.