Liverpool Midfielder Luca Stephenson Cleared After Head Injury on Loan at Barrow
Liverpool midfielder Luca Stephenson has been given the all-clear after suffering a severe head injury while on loan at Barrow. The 20-year-old has been performing well during his loan spell with League Two side Barrow, making his 19th appearance in a promotion tie against Wrexham on New Year’s Day.
Stephenson’s injury occurred under difficult circumstances as he replaced midfielder David Worrall, who had received treatment on the pitch due to a clash of heads. Worrall was struck just 11 minutes into the game, causing a delay in play for 10 minutes. Unfortunately, Wrexham took advantage of the situation and scored three goals in first-half stoppage time, turning the match around after an early Barrow lead.
Stephenson himself was forced off the field just five minutes into the second half due to his head injury. Medical staff had to use a stretcher to take him off the pitch. Despite the injuries, the game continued and ended in a 4-1 victory for Wrexham, giving them a four-point lead over Barrow in the automatic promotion places.
Fortunately, Barrow provided an update after the match, stating that Stephenson was “up and talking” and did not require hospitalization. Worrall, on the other hand, needed treatment at the hospital but was conscious and able to communicate. Ryan Reynolds, co-chairman of Wrexham, took to Twitter to express his relief and wish both players a speedy recovery.
Due to concussion protocol, Stephenson is expected to miss the upcoming match against Tranmere but may be available for the trip to Sutton United on January 13. This means he will miss the opportunity to reunite with his Liverpool academy teammate James Norris, who delivered an outstanding performance in his full debut for Tranmere in League Two.
Norris had previously struggled for playing time, often being left out of the squad or sitting on the bench during his loan spell at Tranmere. However, a change in management from Ian Dawes to Nigel Adkins has resulted in a change of fortune for the left-back. He showcased his skills in a 4-2 victory over Notts County on New Year’s Day.
Liverpool has already recalled four players from loan clubs this month, including Fabio Carvalho, Owen Beck, Rhys Williams, and James Balagizi. Additionally, Nat Phillips’ loan deal at Celtic has expired, and he will resume training with the first team. A decision will also be made regarding Luke Hewitson’s loan at Stalybridge Celtic.
Overall, despite the injuries suffered by Stephenson and Worrall, both players are expected to make a full recovery and continue their football careers.