Harvey Elliot sustained a dislocated ankle during Liverpool’s 3-0 win over Leeds – but has taken to Instagram to relieve Pascal Struijk of any blame.
With the scoreline reading 2-0 to Liverpool and Leeds fans bemoaning their side’s lack of defensive structure, Struijk attempted to tackle Elliott.
Forcefully, he went in on Elliott from behind. While it was not a particularly ugly challenge – Struijk gets the ball – Elliott has suffered a horror injury.
Since the game, in which Mo Salah, Fabinho and Sadio Mane all scored, plenty of positive messages have been sent in the direction of Elliott.
Elliott has been active too. The teen is likely to have to undergo surgery on the injury, in which Leeds physio Rob Price helped to fix immediately after.
Liverpool star Elliott defends Leeds man Struijk on Instagram
Struijk has come in for some criticism for the tackle, not least because he has received a red card for it. But Elliott has responded.
Elliot is well-liked by those of a Liverpool persuasion for his engagement with supporters and his personality. He jumped to the defence of Struijk.
Responding to a post from Instagram page 433, Elliot gave his verdict. He believes that Struijk is devoid of any blame and that it was a normal tackle.
Elliott says: “It wasn’t his fault whatsoever. Neither was it a red card, just a freak accident. These things happen in football. I’ll be back stronger 100%.”