Liverpool defender Giovanni Leoni sustained a critical harm throughout yesterday’s Carabao Cup third-round fixture in opposition to Southampton.
Following Jarell Quansah’s departure, the Reds determined to bolster the defensive division by signing the Italian from Parma for a payment of round £26m this summer season. Arne Slot’s aspect had been additionally eager on buying Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace, however a deal ultimately didn’t come to fruition.
After remaining as an unused substitute over the previous couple of video games, the 18-year-old was handed his first begin final night time. The teen even displayed an eye catching efficiency, profitable three out of three aerial duels and making 88 passes with a 97% accuracy fee.
Nevertheless, his debut led to a really disappointing method after selecting up an harm in the course of the later levels of the sport. Immediately, it appeared like a significant issue, and he was taken off on a stretcher.
Now, on X, Romano says that Leoni has torn his ACL and is ready to stay sidelined for ‘a number of months’. Arne Slot was glad along with his efficiency vs Southampton, however the defender’s season is all however over.
Romano wrote:
“Liverpool centre again Giovanni Leoni has torn his ACL and might be out for a number of months. After wonderful debut in League Cup final night time with additionally Arne Slot very glad, an unfortunate harm for Leoni who will attempt to be again earlier than the top of the season.”
Leoni picks up critical harm
Following Leoni’s harm, Liverpool have been left with Joe Gomez, Ibrahima Konate, and Virgil Van Dijk as the one specialist centre-back choices. Nevertheless, Gomez struggled with harm issues final time period, whereas Konate has additionally had health points over the previous couple of years.
Slot used Wataru Endo in CB at occasions final season, whereas he has mentioned that Ryan Gravenberch can present cowl on this space if wanted. The Dutch boss even used Andy Robertson within the centre-back place following Leoni’s substitution vs the Saints.
So, it may be mentioned that Liverpool lack choices on the coronary heart of defence and will do with shopping for a brand new defender within the upcoming winter window.
In the meantime, Liverpool have began the season by profitable seven consecutive video games throughout all competitions. Now, they are going to face off in opposition to Crystal Palace within the Premier League this weekend.
