The problem comes at an unfortunate time, with the club facing a difficult run of fixtures, but the centre-half isn't expected to be out for long
Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk's injury 'should not be too serious' after he was withdrawn from Saturday's game against former club Southampton with a rib injury.
With the Reds 3-0 up, the Dutch centre-back was involved in a challenge with Shane Long in the 51st minute and came away holding his side.
Van Dijk was unable to continue and had to be subbed off four minutes later, with Joe Gomez coming on in his place.
However, Reds manager Jurgen Klopp expressed his confidence that the injury is unlikely to keep the influential Van Dijk on the sidelines for too long.
"He had before the game a bruise on his ribs and today he got another hit there, but should not be too serious."
Van Dijk was seen on the bench later in the second half rather than in the dressing room receiving treatment.
The Reds went on to win the match 3-0, with the club setting a record for their best start to a season in club history.
Liverpool face Chelsea twice in four days next week - Wednesday in a Carabao Cup match and then Saturday in Premier League action.
The following week Liverpool travel to Italy to face Napoli in the Champions League before hosting Manchester City in a marquee Premier League clash.
It is expected that Van Dijk will be available for the Premier League clash with Chelsea, but will sit out the League Cup fixture.
dolphiner
70
I think it's more of an excuse to test the pairing of Matip and Gomez in a relatively easy match. Two birds with one stone, rest VVD precautionary and see how the two will perform just in case it's needed
KindDrew
56
Nope I'm so sure it's not that serious tho it's on the ribs but I'm so sure it's not going to be a problem for him..we need him now more than ever 💪💪💪#YnwaForEver
iunderstand
53
We got only 3 fit centre halves, and Gomez have played every minute of the season except the first 55 against Southampton. So a VVD and Matip partnership once again would be ideal for Chelsea in the Carabao Cup.
herickzyn
33
he don't they afraid of Chelsea that's why he pretended.... its a pity Liverpool will surely have an excuses against Chelsea if they beat them........ Up bluzzzzz
Naubeimnsz
28
We are alright at center back as long as Lovren stays on the bench we don’t want him on the pitch at any time he makes some stupid decisions a child wouldn’t make.