Liverpool rocked by fresh injury blow as key star could miss rest of season

Liverpool have been dealt a significant blow in the final stretch of the season as goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili is set to be sidelined for two to four weeks.

The 25-year-old Georgian international sustained a nasty injury during Sunday’s dramatic 2-1 Merseyside derby victory over Everton at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.

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According to a report from The Athletic, the injury, initially feared to be severe, is not as serious as first thought.

However, the shot-stopper is still expected to spend at least a fortnight on the treatment table.

While Liverpool’s medical staff have not yet placed an exact timeframe on his return, the recovery period is estimated to be between 14 and 28 days, depending on how quickly the “deep wound” heals.

Giorgi Mamardashvili could miss major chunk of remaining season

The timing of the injury is particularly cruel for Arne Slot’s side, as they enter the decisive month of the Premier League campaign.

Mamardashvili is certain to miss upcoming fixtures against Crystal Palace and the high-stakes trip to Manchester United.

Should his recovery lean toward the four-week mark, he could also be ruled out for the crucial clashes against Chelsea and Aston Villa in May.

With the race for Champions League qualification reaching its peak, being without their in-form keeper is a setback Liverpool could ill-afford, especially with first-choice Alisson Becker already working his way back from a hamstring issue.

There is a chance that the Georgian may not play again this season given that the recovery takes longer than expected.

Freddie Woodman impressed during outing vs Everton

In the midst of the injury gloom, the performance of Freddie Woodman provided a silver lining.

Sent into the action in the 58th minute following Mamardashvili’s collision with Everton striker Beto, Woodman made his Premier League debut for the Reds under immense pressure.

The former Newcastle man remained composed despite the hostile atmosphere, helping Liverpool hold firm until Virgil van Dijk’s 100th-minute winner.

Manager Arne Slot was quick to praise the third-choice keeper, noting his calmness during a “difficult moment.”

With Alisson still sidelined, Woodman is now expected to start against Crystal Palace this Saturday.

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