VIRGIL VAN DIJK has promised Liverpool fans “I’ll be back” and vowed to do “everything” to return as quickly as possible from surgery.
The Anfield star, 29, will go under the knife on his knee after Jordan Pickford’s horror tackle in the 2-2 Merseyside derby.
England and Everton No1 Pickford could reportedly still be given a three-match ban for his reckless lunge.
The challenge took Van Dijk out of the game and Liverpool confirmed today he had damaged ligaments, meaning he could miss the rest of the season.
But Van Dijk has said he will do everything in his power to be back as quickly as he can – even if that could be next campaign.
A statement posted from Van Dijk’s official Twitter page read: “This afternoon I met with a leading consultant to start the process of planning the finer details of my rehabilitation following the incident yesterday.
“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 difficulty lies opportunity and with God’s help I’m going to make sure I 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.
“I’d like to thank everyone for the messages of support, it’s meant a huge amount to me and my family, and now I’ll be doing everything possible to support my team-mates in any way I can ahead of a big few weeks ahead as I take my own recovery day by day.
“I’ll be back.”
A statement from Liverpool read: “Liverpool FC can confirm Virgil van Dijk will undergo surgery on the knee injury he sustained during Saturday’s 2-2 draw at Everton.
“The centre-back damaged knee ligaments following an incident involving Blues goalkeeper Jordan Pickford after six minutes at Goodison Park.
“Van Dijk was required to be substituted and further assessment on the injury has revealed an operation will be needed.
“No specific timescale is being placed upon his return to action at this stage.
“Following surgery, Van Dijk will begin a rehabilitation programme with the club’s medical team to enable him to reach full fitness as soon as possible.”
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