Liverpool loanee Arthur opens up on World Cup heartbreak as he begins surgery recovery

• Brazilian on loan from Juventus
• Was already likely to miss out on squad
• But injury has worsened international standing

WHAT HAPPENED? The midfielder, yet to appear in a Premier League match, picked up a thigh injury ahead of Liverpool's recent home game against Rangers in the Champions League and it looks to have ruled him out of the World Cup.

WHAT THEY SAID: Writing via his Instagram account, he said: "Last week was not the best for me… Sadly, as you know, an unfortunate injury to my left thigh will keep me out of action for a while. It comes just at a time when, after huge effort and lots of hard work, I was ready to establish myself in my new team and determined to fight for my dream of playing at the World Cup."

THE BIGGER PICTURE: The Brazilian arrived from Juventus on loan to provide some much-needed depth to Jurgen Klopp's midfield. Having now picked up this long-term injury before even featuring in the Premier League, this deal has been a disaster for all parties so far.

IN THREE PHOTOS:

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WHAT NEXT FOR ARTHUR? While he may not be fit to take part in the World Cup next month, Arthur can at least hope to make a positive impact for the Reds in the new year after such a slow start to his loan.