Liverpool's Champions League Opponents Porto Hit by Major Injury Blow to Key Midfielder

Porto have suffered a significant injury blow ahead of next month's Champions League round of 16 tie with Liverpool after holding midfielder Danilo was ruled out for a month with a leg injury.

The Portuguese midfielder suffered the injury as Porto were beaten 4-3 on penalties by rivals Sporting in the semi-finals of the Taca da Liga on Wednesday night.

Speaking about the significance of Danilo to Porto, Portuguese journalist Luis Paulo Rodrigues told the Liverpool Echo: "Danilo has been Porto's midfield powerhouse for three seasons - and played more games for the Dragoes than any player since joining the club from Marítimo.

"An integral part of Portugal's Euro 2016 triumph, Danilo helped keep Gareth Bale quiet in the semi-final match up with Wales the summer before last."

The month long injury is certain to keep Danilo out of the first leg of the tie with Liverpool, which will take place at Porto's Estadio Do Dragao on the 14th February, though Porto will be hopeful of having him available for the second leg at Anfield three weeks later.

Danilo has made 29 appearances for Porto this season, helping them to a one point lead over Sporting at the top of the Primeira Liga, as both sides look to end Benfica's run of four consecutive national titles.

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