Philippe Coutinho will have tests on Monday to discover the extent of his ankle injury, which forced him off on a stretcher Saturday against Sunderland.
The injury looked bad, with the medical staff placing his entire leg in a brace, and while it appears the Reds have escaped the possibility of a break for the Brazilian playmaker, they reportedly fear ligament damage, something that could keep him out for the clogged holiday season.
According to a report by the Liverpool Echo, the club harbors fears that Coutinho does indeed have some structural damage, which would see them lose their leading creative force for significant time. The 24-year-old has scored five goals this season, and always has a flair for the dramatic score, but that’s not all he brings to the Reds. Coutinho has created 33 chances this season, tied with Roberto Firmino for tops in the Liverpool squad.
Liverpool’s holiday season is highlighted by a clash with Manchester City on New Year’s Eve, while they also take on Middlesbrough, Everton, Stoke City, and Sunderland between December 19 and January 2.
Should Coutinho miss significant time, Firmino will see his role increased as an even more vital player, while Georginio Wijnaldum could see a more attacking role. Adam Lallana is already out injured, but he is expected back sooner rather than later.