‘I’ll Be Back’- Van Dijk Pledges To Return Stronger As Long Lay-Off Beckons

Van Dijk was substituted in the first half of the 2-2 draw between Liverpool and Everton at Goodison Park after he was clattered into by Toffees goalkeeper Jordan Pickford.

Scans conducted on the 29-year-old Netherlands international revealed he has suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury and would require surgery to correct the problem.

The 2019 UEFA Men’s Best Player looks set to miss majority of the campaign, with a period of at least six months likely to be spent on the treatment table.

"This afternoon I met with a leading consultant to start the process of planning the finer details of my rehabilitation following the incident yesterday," Van Dijk wrote on Twitter.

"I'm now fully focused on my recovery and will do everything I can to be back as quickly as possible.

"Despite the obvious disappointment, I'm a firm believer that within difficulty lies opportunity and with God's help I'm going to make sure I return better, fitter and stronger than ever before.

"In football, as in life, I believe everything happens for a reason and it's important to try and keep level-headed whether going through the highs or the lows. With the support of my wife, kids, family and everyone at Liverpool, I'm ready for the challenge ahead.

"I'd like to thank everyone for the messages of support. It's meant a huge amount to me and my family, and now I'll be doing everything possible to support my teammates in anyway I can ahead of a big few weeks ahead as I take my own recovery day by day. I'll be back."

Van Dijk’s absence will be a huge blow to Liverpool’s chances of retaining the title this season as manager Jurgen Klopp has been left with Joe Gomez and Joel Matip as his remaining central defensive options.