Liverpool forward Dirk Kuyt fears that the ankle injury he suffered while on international with the Netherlands will keep him out of action for several months.

The 30-year-old landed awkwardly during the 4-1 victory over Sweden in Amsterdam on Tuesday evening and admits that he is facing a lengthy absence.

He told reporters:"The swelling is so bad it will take three to four days (to be assessed) to be sure, but I fear the worst.

"You know your own body and it doesn't feel good - the doctors have the same feeling. They say I've probably torn ankle ligaments, so let's hope they're wrong."

Kuyt, who has only recently recovered from a shoulder injury, was given little hope of a better prognosis by Netherlands head coach Bert van Marwijk, who said straight after the game:"Dirk wanted to play on, but our doctor prevented that and told me to substitute him.

"Following the doctor's first opinion it could be very serious and keep him sidelined for a long time."Subscribe to Football FanCast News Headlines by Email