Liverpool have suffered a major blow at the end of the season, with goalkeeper Giorgi Mamadashvili expected to be sidelined for two to four weeks.
The 25-year-old Georgia international suffered the serious injury during Sunday’s dramatic 2-1 Merseyside derby win over Everton at Hill Dickinson Stadium.
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The Athletic reported that the injury, which was initially feared to be serious, was not as serious as initially thought.
However, the shot-stopper is still expected to spend at least two weeks on the treatment table.
Liverpool’s medical staff have not yet given an exact timetable for his return, but the recovery period is estimated to be between 14 and 28 days, depending on how quickly the “deep wound” heals.
Jorge Mamadashvili could miss most of the rest of the season
The timing of the injury is particularly cruel for Arne Slott’s side as they enter a crucial month of the Premier League season.
Mamadashvili is certain to miss the upcoming game against Crystal Palace and the high-stakes trip to Manchester United.
If his recovery tips towards the four-week mark, he could be ruled out of the crucial games against Chelsea and Aston Villa in May.
As the race for Champions League qualification reaches its climax, being without an in-form keeper is an unbearable setback for Liverpool, especially with first-choice Alisson Becker already working his way back from a hamstring problem.
Possibly. Considering the recovery is taking longer than expected, the Georgian may not be able to play again this season.
Freddie Woodman impressed against Everton
In the midst of injury depression, Freddie Woodman’s performance provided a ray of hope.
Woodman made his Premier League debut for the Reds under great pressure, coming on in the 58th minute following a collision between Mamadashvili and Everton striker Beto.
The former Newcastle player kept his cool despite the hostile atmosphere and helped Liverpool defend until Virgil van Dijk’s 100th-minute winner.
Coach Arne Slott was quick to praise the third-choice keeper, pointing out his calmness in “difficult moments”.
With Alisson still sidelined, Woodman is expected to start this Saturday against Crystal Palace.
