Liverpool will be without Virgil van Dijk for a lengthy period of time after the centre-back injured his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) during the Reds' 2-2 draw against rivals Everton on Saturday.Van Dijk came off early in the first half after Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford clattered into him in a wild challenge.Pickford's challenge was reckless and it caused serious injury to Van Dijk, who now faces a prolonged spell on the sidelines.The Everton 'keeper escaped punishment following his involvement in the collision, which was branded 'assault' by Sky Sports pundit Graeme Souness. 
Van Dijk posts social media messageVan Dijk later released a message on social media after it was confirmed that he had suffered an ACL injury."This afternoon I met with a leading consultant to start the process of planning the finer details of my rehabilitation following the incident yesterday," the 29-year-old wrote"I'm now fully focussed on my recovery and will do everything I can to be back as quickly as possible."Despite the obvious disappointment, I'm a firm believer that within difficultly lies opportunity and with God's help I'm going to make sure I can return better, fitter and stronger than ever before."In football, as in life, I believe everything happens for a reason and it's important to try and keep level headed whether going through the highs or the lows."With the support of my wife, kids, family and everyone at Liverpool, I'm ready for the challenge ahead."
Laporte sends message to Van Dijk
Among those sending support to the injured star is Man City defender Aymeric Laporte.
The Frenchman forgot all about the rivalry between City and Liverpool to send a classy message to Van Dijk.
"Sorry bro. Best of luck for the quick recovery, never neither fun nor rejoicing even as rivals," Laporte wrote.
Laporte himself battled a knee injury that left him out for four months last season. It's great to see him come to Van Dijk's side at this difficult time.