Liverpool FC confirm Fabinho injury blow amid Man City title race

Manchester City are battling Liverpool for the Premier League title and Jurgen Klopp's side have suffered an unfortunate injury setback.

Liverpool could be without key midfielder Fabinho for up to eight weeks, the club have confirmed.

Brazil international Fabinho suffered ankle ligament damage during the Champions League encounter with Napoli in midweek and is now expected to be out until the New Year.

The central midfielder was substituted just 18 minutes into Liverpool's 1-1 draw against Napoli on Wednesday night after damaging his ankle during a challenge.

A statement from Liverpool read: "Further assessment on the injury has discovered Fabinho will be out of action until the New Year.

"The Brazilian will begin a rehabilitation programme with the Reds’ medical team at Melwood as he works his way back to full fitness."

Fabinho has formed a key role for Jurgen Klopp's side this season and has played the entire 90 minutes in 11 of their 13 Premier League matches this campaign.

The 26-year-old has contributed one goal in the league this season, with a thunderous strike in Liverpool's 3-1 victory over City at Anfield earlier in November.

Fabinho's setback comes as a big blow for Liverpool ahead of a packed festive fixture schedule which will see them face Everton and Leicester, as well as compete in the annual FIFA Club World Cup tournament.