Cody Gakpo returns to Liverpool as forward could face weeks out

Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo has withdrawn from the Netherlands squad after suffering an ankle injury during Sunday’s 2-1 Nations League victory over Serbia.

The 27-year-old lasted only 17 minutes in Belgrade after being caught by a heavy challenge from Serbia midfielder Sasa Lukic, who received a yellow card for the tackle.

Gakpo initially attempted to continue but soon signalled that he could not play on and was replaced by Ruben van Bommel.

The Netherlands subsequently confirmed that the forward would leave their camp and miss the remaining two matches of the international window.

Liverpool have also announced that Gakpo will return to the AXA Training Centre to undergo further assessment by the club’s medical staff.

However, the injury could keep him sidelined beyond the international break.

Dutch journalist Rik Elfrink claims that Gakpo will be unavailable for ‘several weeks’ while recovering from the problem.

Liverpool have not confirmed that timeframe, meaning the extent of the injury should become clearer following their own assessment.

Any extended absence would represent a significant setback for manager Andoni Iraola ahead of the return of Premier League football.

Gakpo has started the new campaign strongly, registering two goals and four assists for Liverpool.

He had also recently experienced an adductor issue which kept him out of Liverpool’s Champions League meeting with Atletico Madrid earlier this month.

Iraola described that problem as precautionary rather than a significant injury, and Gakpo subsequently returned to action before joining the Netherlands squad.

The latest setback therefore comes at an unfortunate time, particularly with Liverpool already monitoring another attacking injury.

Alexander Isak also returned early from international duty after suffering a fitness problem with Sweden, leaving Iraola waiting on assessments of two important forwards.

Liverpool are next scheduled to face Manchester City at Anfield on October 11, giving Gakpo two weeks to recover before their domestic campaign resumes.

If the reported several-week recovery period proves accurate, the Dutchman would be a major doubt for City’s visit.

Liverpool will now hope their assessment produces a more encouraging diagnosis as Gakpo begins his rehabilitation on Merseyside.