Liverpool are set to be without Virgil van Dijk for a lengthy period of time after the centre-back injured his ACL against Everton last Saturday.

Jordan Pickford’s reckless challenge on Van Dijk caused major damage to his right knee.

According to the Mirror, it’s a grade three tear. That’s the worst level, meaning Van Dijk’s ligament was torn in half.

Surgery is required and the 29-year-old could be out for a year.

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Damage 'worse than first feared'

It’s a disappointing blow to Liverpool and Van Dijk, who has established himself as a world-class defender since joining the Reds.

Unfortunately for Van Dijk, this isn't a light injury. And according to The Athletics's David Ornstein, it's even worse than first feared.

During an episode of Ask Ornstein on YouTube, the journalist claimed that the damage to Van Dijk's knee might be even worse than what's been reported.

“It’s my understanding that the damage to Virgil van Dijk’s right knee is perhaps worse than initially feared and extends beyond the ACL," Ornstein said.

Ornstein stressed that he's no medical expert and that it was just the information he had received.

He was also hesitant to divulge much more about the injury.

But based on his claim, it's unlikely we will see Van Dijk again this season.