Forward Divock Origi is facing six weeks on the sidelines after scans showed significant damage to the ankle that forced him off the pitch during Liverpool's 4-0 demolition of Everton in the Merseyside derby yesterday morning.
Origi was the victim of a horror tackle five minutes into the second half from Everton defender Ramiro Funes Mori, who received a straight red card from referee Robert Madley. Mori stomped on Origi's ankle after he received the ball and then appeared to kiss his badge as he left the field. He has since apologised for the incident.
It overshadows what was a great night for the entire club as the Reds trounced their cross-town rivals in what was one of the most one-sided Merseyside derbies in recent memory. It also a crucial blow to the Belgium international who was in fine form for the club scoring five goals in as many games in what has been a successful two week period for Jurgen Klopp's men.
Liverpool will now be relying on Daniel Sturridge for goals, with the England international coming off the bench in the second half to notch his 11th Premier League goal for the season. With Origi now joining fellow strikers Christian Benteke and Danny Ings in the treatment room, the Reds will be hoping Sturridge can fire them to Europa League glory.
It caps off a mixed first season for Origi who has battled niggling injuries throughout his first campaign in England. But when fit, he has managed to return the favour to manager Jurgen Klopp for showing faith in the 21-year old.
Liverpool is back in action this weekend, welcoming former manager Rafael Benitez, as he brings his Newcastle side to Anfield on Sunday morning.
