Dundee United has confirmed that Liverpool loanee Luca Stephenson will miss the remainder of the season due to a serious hamstring injury. The midfielder, who has been a crucial player for the Terrors, has already sat out the club's last two fixtures against Livingston and Dundee. This unfortunate development effectively ends his second loan spell at Tannadice Park.

Manager Jim Goodwin addressed the severity of Stephenson's injury, stating that while it is serious, surgery will not be required. This news offers some relief, as it often indicates a less complex recovery process compared to injuries necessitating surgical intervention.

Goodwin expressed his disappointment for both Stephenson and fellow loanee Amar Fatah, who also sustained an injury. "It’s part and parcel of the game but, of course, we are disappointed for Amar and Luca," the Dundee United boss told the Courier. He added, "They have been incredibly important players for us over the course of the season and it’s not how we wanted either of their campaigns to end, but that’s where we are."

Despite the premature end to his playing season, Luca Stephenson will remain in Scotland for the initial stages of his rehabilitation. Dundee United maintains a strong relationship with Liverpool, and the club's medical team will oversee the early recovery period before Stephenson returns to his parent club.

Stephenson had returned to Dundee United for an additional year after an impressive 2024/25 campaign, where he earned the Young Player of the Season award. Goodwin highlighted the club's appreciation for both injured players, stating, "It’s a shame they won’t be able to say goodbye on the pitch after a few more matches, but I’m pretty sure we’ll be able to do something for the guys to be able to show their appreciation to the supporters."

While an exact timeframe for recovery has not been provided, the focus will now be on Stephenson's rehabilitation to ensure a full return to fitness. His contributions throughout the season have been highly valued by Dundee United as they navigate their remaining four matches without him.