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Liverpool’s defense takes another hit; Skrtel set for six-week absence

Chelsea v Liverpool - Capital One Cup Semi-Final: Second Leg

LONDON, ENGLAND - JANUARY 27: (THE SUN OUT, THE SUN ON SUNDAY OUT) Deigo Costa of Chelsea on the floor as Martin Skrtel of Liverpool reacts during the Capital One Cup Semi-Final match between Chelsea and Liverpool at Stamford Bridge on January 27, 2015 in London, England. (Photo by John Powell/Liverpool FC via Getty Images)

Liverpool FC via Getty Images

Liverpool has suffered a big blow ahead of the busy festive season, as defensive anchor Martin Sktel is set for a month-and-a-half on the sidelines.

The 31-year-old Slovak had played every minute for Liverpool this season before suffering the injury and subbing off after 40 minutes against Watford on Sunday. The Hornets led 2-0 at that point, en route to a 3-0 victory.

[ MORE: Cheers! Leicester City buying beer for fans to celebrate 2015 ]

There were fears that Skrtel could miss much longer than the six-week diagnosis, but the defender laid out the plan on Tuesday.

From Sky Sports:

“After all rumours going around, I want to say the time I will spend on (the) sideline won’t be 3 months. After I suffered tear in my hamstring and tendon I will be out for 6 weeks. I will work hard on my recovery and will do everything to come back as soon as possible and even stronger than before! Thanks for your support.”

Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp is without Dejan Lovren already, and Joe Gomez injured his ACL back in June.

Mamadou Sakho has recently returned to full fitness, a good sign for the Reds, and Kolo Toure is also on the roster. Emre Can has slotted at center back during lean times earlier this season.

Follow @NicholasMendola