Liverpool midfielder Georginio Wijnaldum suffers injury scare ahead of Manchester United showdown

Liverpool midfielder Georginio Wijnaldum limped off in the Netherlands' World Cup qualifying defeat against France and is a doubt for the Reds' Premier League showdown against arch-rivals Manchester United on 17 October.

Wijnaldum, 25, came off in the 62nd minute of the match at the Amsterdam Arena after appearing to pick up a hamstring injury.

He will return to Melwood to be assessed by Liverpool's medical staff on 11 October, according to the Liverpool Echo.

United midfielder Paul Pogba scored the only goal of the game in Amsterdam to power France to a crucial World Cup qualifying win.

Wijnaldum's injury could be a major blow for Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp, who is also sweating over the fitness of Adam Lallana.

The England midfielder injured his groin during the 2-1 win over Swansea City on 1 October.

'Special game'

Liverpool hold a three-point lead over United heading into the crunch clash against their arch-rivals at Anfield.

Red Devils midfielder Juan Mata said he was looking forward to a "special game" against the Merseysiders. "This is a special game for the Manchester United fans and, in general, one of the greatest clashes of the seasons in European football," the Spaniard wrote on his blog.

"I have been lucky to enjoy it in the past and I can assure you that this is a game like no other. This time, with both teams in a good moment, I hope we see a spectacular football match.

"We are really looking forward to showing what we are capable of, to play well and be competitive.

"After our last draw [against Stoke City], the team wants to play as soon as possible to get the three points, as we did the last two times we played at Anfield in the Premier League, and to confirm that we are on the right track. I really hope so."