Cody Gakpo withdraws from Netherlands squad after ankle injury

Gakpo returns to Liverpool for injury assessment

Liverpool have suffered another injury setback during the international break after Cody Gakpo withdrew from the Netherlands squad with an ankle problem.

Gakpo sustained the injury during the Netherlands’ 2-1 victory over Serbia on Sunday. He was forced off after only 17 minutes following a hard tackle, ending his involvement in the Dutch team’s final two Nations League fixtures.

Initial indications suggested the injury was not serious, but tests carried out on Monday led to Gakpo leaving the Netherlands camp. No replacement has been called up for the remaining matches.

Liverpool confirmed that Gakpo will return to the club and undergo further assessment at their training centre. The club have not yet provided a timescale for his recovery or confirmed whether he will be available for their next fixture.

Important start to the season interrupted

The injury comes at an unwelcome time for Gakpo, who has made an influential start to the campaign amid a summer in which he was linked with a move away from Anfield, including reported interest from Tottenham and Manchester City.

He has recorded six goal involvements in all competitions, including two goals and four assists, giving him the highest total among Liverpool players so far. His 13 chances created rank second at the club, behind only Dominik Szoboszlai.

Liverpool are scheduled to return to action against Manchester City on October 11.