Liverpool defender Van Dijk seriously injured, may be out for remainder of season

With the news that defender Virgil Van Dijk will be removed for several months, Liverpool have been dealt a heavy hit in their quest to clinch the Premier League title the second consecutive time.

Liverpool defender Virgil Van Dijk collides with Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford during their Premier League game at the Goodison Park which ended 2-2. Photo: Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images

The Dutchman picked up a serious knee ligament injury during the English top flight encounter between Liverpool and Everton at the Goodison Park on Saturday 17. A game which ended 2-2.

Van Dijk was immensely helpful in Liverpool's title-lifting campaign last season walked off the pitch after colliding with Toffees goalie Jordan Pickford during the encounter, an action which led to his injury.

The Netherlands international, 29, was removed from action just eleven minutes into the game after a damage to his anterior cruciate ligament in the knee.

Liverpool defender Virgil Van Dijk (second from right) walks off the pitch after picking up an ACL injury during their Premier League game against Everton at the Goodison Park. Everton Head Coach Carlo Ancelotti (c) and Liverpool Head Coach Jurgen Klopp (r). Photo: Catherine Ivill/Getty Images

Liverpool Captain Jordan Henderson said: "the comeback is always stronger than the setback."

Andy Robertson also assured that his teammates would stand by him "every step of the way".

Van Dijk will be missing in action for Liverpool for several months, however, the duration of his absence due to his ACL injury is unknown and will depend on many factors.