Huge blow for Liverpool with defender needing surgery

The Premier League returns on Saturday with Liverpool welcoming rivals Everton to Anfield for the Merseyside derby. 

The two sides have had contrasting seasons so far, with the Reds flying high in fourth spot, while the Toffees sit in 16th place and look likely to be involved in a relegation battle once again.

Ahead of the match, though, Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp has been dealt a huge blow.

During his press conference ahead of the match, the German revealed that full-back Andy Robertson requires surgery on a shoulder injury.

“Talking to pretty much all the experts it looks like surgery will be the best thing, especially in the long term, and that means he is out for a while,” Klopp said, as reported by 90min.

Robertson will miss the Merseyside derby on Saturday

The 29-year-old defender suffered the injury while on international duty last week, being forced off during Scotland’s 2-0 loss against Spain in Euro 2024 qualifying after colliding with goalkeeper Unai Simon.

Robertson then returned to Merseyside to be assessed by Liverpool’s medical staff, but Klopp confirmed on Friday afternoon that the player will be absent ‘for a while’.

Having joined Liverpool from Hull City for just £7 million back in 2017, Robertson quickly established himself as one of the best left-backs in Europe.

He has made 275 appearances for the club across all competitions over the past six years, winning seven trophies including the Premier League, Champions League and FA Cup.

The report also suggests that the shoulder injury could keep Robertson out of action for a number of weeks and, potentially, until 2024.

In his absence, Greece international Kostas Tsimikas will likely deputise at left-back.