Cody Gakpo suffers injury scare on Netherlands duty
Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo was forced off just 17 minutes into the Netherlands’ 2–1 win over Serbia on September 27, creating another fitness concern for Liverpool during the international break.
Gakpo started the match in Belgrade but was involved in a heavy challenge from Serbia midfielder Saša Lukić around the 12th minute. Gakpo initially tried to continue, but a few minutes later he signalled to the Netherlands bench that he could not carry on. He was seen holding his left ankle before being replaced by Ruben van Bommel.
The injury is particularly concerning for Liverpool because Gakpo has reportedly made an excellent start to the season. His situation also comes shortly after Alexander Isak withdrew from Sweden duty because of a thigh problem, meaning Liverpool are currently waiting for updates on two attacking players.
Netherlands head coach Xavi has expressed hope that Gakpo’s injury is not serious, but the exact extent of the problem has not yet been confirmed. Reports say the Liverpool forward is expected to undergo further assessment/scans.
There is therefore no confirmed return date for Gakpo at this stage. Liverpool will be particularly interested in the results because their next major fixture after the international break is against Manchester City on October 11.
In short: Gakpo suffered an apparent left-ankle injury after a challenge against Serbia, had to leave early, and Liverpool are now waiting for medical assessment to determine how serious it is.
