Liverpool defender Giovanni Leoni faces months on the sidelines after struggling a suspected anterior cruciate ligament damage on his debut.
The 18-year-old performed 81 minutes of Tuesday’s 2-1 Carabao Cup third-round win over Southampton earlier than going off with the damage.
Leoni, who joined the Reds in August from Parma for a payment of £26m plus add-ons, has since had checks on his left knee.
Sources have indicated the centre-back has broken his ACL, which might in all probability rule him out for many – if not all – of the remainder of the season.
“I need to sincerely thank each single one who has proven me help on this troublesome second,” Leoni wrote on Instagram.
“It wasn’t the debut I had at all times dreamed of, however I’ll give every thing to be again taking part in on this magical stadium as quickly as potential. Thanks a lot!”
The damage leaves Liverpool supervisor Arne Slot with simply three recognised centre-backs in Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konate and Joe Gomez.
“He’s down as a result of, for him, it did not really feel good instantly. Usually the feelings of a participant inform you numerous,” Slot stated after Tuesday’s match.
Liverpool are capable of exchange Leoni of their Champions League squad, with ahead Federico Chiesa among the many contenders for inclusion.
Slot’s aspect have gained all 5 Premier League matches thus far this season in defence of their title.
