Mascherano picked up in injury in the tackle he was sent off for and faces at least a fortnight out. This absence coincides with his four game suspension so that is one small glimmer of consolation for the Reds.
"The player had a scan this afternoon which confirmed the medical team's initial diagnosis that he suffered a medial ligament sprain in his left knee," said a club spokesman.
"He is exoected to be sidelined for two to three weeks."