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The Galatasaray forward endured an unusual and painful injury during his team’s recent UEFA Champions League encounter with Liverpool.

Noa Lang has responded in a light-hearted manner after suffering a freak accident while representing Galatasaray.

The Netherlands international came close to losing his right thumb after it was sliced by an advertising board at Anfield during Galatasaray’s 4-0 loss to Liverpool in the UEFA Champions League.

Lang has since joined the Netherlands national team, having been called up by coach Ronald Koeman for their upcoming friendlies against Norway and Ecuador.

The incident occurred in the 76th minute when Lang collided with an advertising hoarding on Merseyside in what initially appeared to be a routine challenge.

However, as he attempted to steady himself by grabbing the board, the Dutch winger’s finger caught on a jagged piece of metal. The injury was severe enough to require multiple stitches at Whiston Hospital in Liverpool.

Speaking to Dutch media, Lang said, “I still have my thumb, it’s still attached, and according to the doctor, it’s going to survive.”

He further explained, “My thumb got caught on a very sharp fence behind the advertising board. There was a very deep cut in it. That was not pleasant. And it’s not nice to see that on your own thumb either.”

The forward added, “I received excellent medical attention, and the surgery went well, though I’m still experiencing some discomfort.”

He continued with humour, “It’s not very practical for daily life either: I’m right-handed, so it’s a bit inconvenient in the toilet.”

Lang also joked, “Playing PlayStation is out of the question for now, but fortunately, football is played with your feet. Besides, I’m getting plenty of help with everything. Hopefully, I’ll be ready to play against Ecuador on Tuesday. But we won’t take any unnecessary risks — the World Cup later on is far more important.”

Following the incident, UEFA issued a statement: “UEFA has reviewed the circumstances leading to the unfortunate accident suffered by Galatasaray SK player Noa Lang and will be assessing the pitch-side arrangements, including LED boards, at all upcoming matches to identify any comparable hazards and instruct clubs to implement appropriate safety measures where needed.”

The statement concluded, “We wish Noa Lang a full and speedy recovery.”

All ended well — a big thumbs-up from FourFourTwo.