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Liverpool's worst fears have been realised after midfielder Emre Can was ruled out for four to six weeks.

A scan has confirmed that the Germany international ruptured ankle ligaments in Thursday night's stunning Europa League triumph over Borussia Dortmund.

Can, who left Anfield on crutches with his right ankle in a protective boot, will miss both legs of the semi-final against Villarreal, as well as next week's Merseyside derby, and is unlikely to play again this season.

Club medical staff are determined to ensure that the 22-year-old is back fit within four weeks, which would give him an outside chance of being available if Liverpool were to reach the Europa League final in Basel on May 18.

However, Jurgen Klopp will have to plan without him and losing Can, who twisted his ankle after landing awkwardly late on against Dortmund, is a crushing blow for the Reds boss.

The setback comes just a week after fellow midfielder Jordan Henderson also suffered a potentially season-ending injury.

The Reds captain damaged knee ligaments in the first leg against Dortmund and was ruled out for six to eight weeks.

Can is suspended for Sunday's Premier League trip to Bournemouth but would have returned against Everton next Wednesday night.

In his absence, there will be great responsibility on the likes of Joe Allen and Lucas Leiva to fill the void.

Both Allen and Lucas came off the bench against Dortmund and are in contention to start at Dean Court tomorrow.