Star Liverpool and Ireland forward Leanne Kiernan out for months | OneFootball

Liverpool have confirmed Leanne Kiernan will be missing for “several months” and could require surgery after suffering an ankle injury against Chelsea on Sunday.

Kiernan scored 13 goals as the Reds won the Women’s Championship last season to gain promotion to the Women’s Super League.

However, she was only able to play 57 minutes as the Reds recorded a shock opening day win over reigning WSL champions Chelsea at the weekend.

“It’s obviously really disappointing for Leanne and the rest of the squad because she had a terrific pre-season and has been in great shape,” said manager Matt Beard.

“But these things happen in football, we have a squad to deal with these things and excellent medical staff to get Leanne back in great shape when she’s ready.”

The injury also means Kiernan will miss Ireland’s World Cup qualifier play-off against either Scotland or Austria next month. Kiernan has four goals in 25 appearances for Ireland.