Ex-Wolves & Sunderland striker makes League Two move as Liverpool dealt major blow ahead of Molineux visit

Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk will miss his side’s trip to Wolves after the international break after being hit with a one-game suspension for acting in an improper manner following his red card at Newcastle United.

The Dutchman missed the club’s 3-0 win over Aston Villa at Anfield after being sent off for a professional foul at St James’ Park but has now been handed an extra match for comments he made towards referee John Brooks following his sending off.

A statement from the FA read: “The defender admitted that he acted in an improper manner and used abusive and insulting words towards a match official after being sent off in the 29th minute and the sanctions were subsequently imposed by an independent regulatory commission.”

It means Liverpool will be without their captain for the trip to Wolves, with two of Joe Gomez, Joel Matip and Ibrahima Konaté likely to line-up against Gary O’Neil’s men on September 16 in the centre of the visitors’ defence. Konate could be an injury doubt after missing the two matches before the international break.

Meanwhile, former Wolves striker Steven Fletcher has joined League Two side Wrexham AFC on a deal until the end of the season.

The 36-year-old spent two years with Wolves between 2010 and 2012 after starting his career with Hibs and then Burnley. He has also played for Sunderland, Marseille, Sheffield Wednesday, Stoke and Dundee United but was released by Dundee after scoring 10 goals last season.

“Hopefully I can bring a lot of experience. I’m 36, I’m still fit and still raring to go,” said Fletcher, who scored 22 Premier League goals in 61 appearances for Wolves. “One of the biggest selling points was the ambition of the club, and if I can help with that then great.

“I don’t think you can not see what has been happening at Wrexham – it’s been a great experience for the fans, players and owners so hopefully we can continue that.”

Wrexham manager Phil Parkinson added: “I’m really pleased with the addition of Steve to the squad. He’s missed football through pre-season but he’s trained today with the lads and it’s good to have him on board.

“His pedigree speaks for itself, and he’s played most of his career at a very high level. He’s an excellent professional and that’s really important to fit in with the group here.”