Philippe Coutinho injury: Liverpool star taken off on a stretcher after horror ankle twist against Sunderland
Reds await results of scans after Brazilian playmaker was carried off after just 30 minutes at Anfield in what could be major blow for Jurgen Klopp
PHILIPPE COUNTINHO was carried off on a stretcher after a shocking looking ankle - sparking fears the Liverpool star could be set for a long spell on the sidelines.
The Brazilian playmaker, 24, went in for a 50/50 ball with Sunderland's Didier Ndong but was left in a heap, clutching his ankle.
Pictures of the clash show Coutinho's right ankle twisted horribly behind him, and he was left writhing in agony on the ground.
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He spent five minutes being treated by medics before leaving the field with his leg in a protective splint in front of a shocked Anfield.
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Liverpool now face an anxious wait to discover the extent of the damage amid immediate concerns the injury is serious.
Initial examinations suggest there is no break, but there could be severe ligament damage and Coutinho left Anfield with his foot in a protective boot.
If the Reds do discover Coutinho has a serious injury, it will be a major blow for Klopp and the club's hopes of challenging for the Premier League title this season.
The playmaker has been one of the best players in the top flight this season and has established himself as one of the most influential players in Klopp's side.
Coutinho has struck six goals in 14 appearances in all competitions for Liverpool this campaign.
And any prolonged absence will also be a worry for Liverpool with Daniel Sturridge missing the Sunderland clash through injury and Sadio Mane set to be absent for the African Cup of Nations in January.