Gakpo injury concerns have added to Liverpool’s growing list of attacking problems after the Netherlands winger withdrew from international duty following an ankle issue sustained against Serbia. Gakpo was replaced in the first half of the Netherlands’ Nations League win over Serbia on Sunday, as they were defeated 2-1. He is now expected to be sent home to Liverpool, where further assessment will be carried out to establish the severity of his injury.
Coach Xavi Hernandez said it was not a serious issue after the game, but Gakpo’s problem was a more serious concern than the Spaniard suggested. But news reports indicated the 26-year-old might have to sit on the bench for a few weeks. Liverpool announced the withdrawal in a statement on Monday, which said Gakpo was ruled out for the remaining two matches in the Netherlands this season.
But the blow comes at a bad time for Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola, who is already facing fitness issues with his attacking options. Alexander Isak, the Swedish striker, has also been sidelined from international duty after injuring himself, allegedly in a “minor way. Isak took a step forward in the Sweden 2-1 win over Romania on Friday but will not be involved in the rest of the international break.
Liverpool will now be keeping an eye on both players when they meet again on October 11 in the Premier League match against Manchester City. They could have a huge impact on the club’s attacking options after the international window. This is further complicated because of injuries to other forwards. Hugo Ekitike has been ruled out for as long as he has had an Achilles issue, and Federico Chiesa hasn’t been available in pre-season.
