Steven Gerrard reveals extent of serious facial injury suffered by Douglas Luiz in defeat to West Ham

Aston Villa manager Steven Gerrard has revealed the extent of the facial injury suffered by Douglas Luiz in the 2-1 defeat to West Ham United, claiming that the Brazilian will ‘need some expert help’ in getting it right.

Luiz was on the end of a high boot from South American rival Manuel Lanzini right at the end of the first-half and it was evident from the off that it had left the midfielder incredibly dazed.

The Villa players in the vicinity of the challenge were demanding a red card from referee Jarred Gillett but he adjudged it just a yellow, a decision that VAR agreed with.

Luiz did return for the second-half but not after receiving some stitches to his lips at the break.

Speaking after the game, Gerrard explained that the 23-year-old will now require facial surgery to correct what was a real nasty blow.

“It’s a mouth injury, he’s going to need some expert help,” explained the manager.

“There will be no kissing for him tonight.

“I’m pleased he played on, that’s the type of character I want.”

Villa also lost left-back Lucas Digne after just 10 minutes and Gerrard added that he will be sent for an MRI scan on a muscle injury but is keeping everything crossed that it isn’t too serious.

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