Arne Slot Delivers Devastating Update on Liverpool's Injury Crisis
Liverpool boss Arne Slot confessed he anticipates Wataru Endo will be sidelined for an "extended period" following a severe ankle injury sustained during Wednesday's 1-0 victory against Sunderland.
Endo was deployed as a makeshift right-back at the Stadium of Light due to Liverpool's defensive injury problems but was carried off on a stretcher with 20 minutes left after making a vital defensive play that prevented a potential Sunderland equalizer.
The 33-year-old's planted foot became trapped in the waterlogged pitch as he attempted to block a cross, and although he initially continued playing through the subsequent corner kick, Endo was eventually stretchered off and substituted by the returning Joe Gomez.
"His injury appears quite serious," Arne Slot disclosed following the match. "I anticipate he'll unfortunately be absent for an extended period once more. What incredible determination from him as well - even though things looked terrible, he remained on the field and defended one additional set piece."
Slot continued: "It's a significant injury. The exact severity remains unknown. He needs evaluation tomorrow. It's a foot injury, we're unsure of the specifics yet, but assessment will happen tomorrow. I believe he'll be out for an extended duration."
Liverpool Down to the Skeleton Crew
Liverpool Down to the Skeleton Crew
Liverpool have endured terrible luck with right-back injuries this campaign as Slot's problematic position becomes an even more pressing concern. Endo only started in that role on Wednesday because of Dominik Szoboszlai's suspension, injuries affecting Conor Bradley and Jeremie Frimpong, and ongoing doubts about Calvin Ramsay's reliability.
Bradley will be unavailable for the rest of the campaign for the Reds, and while Frimpong isn't anticipated to remain out much longer, a specific comeback date hasn't been established.
On a brighter note, Gomez returned from injury as Endo's substitute, though Liverpool can barely depend on the England international's fitness record. With Gomez also needed to fill in at center-back when required, Slot faces extremely limited options across his weakened defense.
An injury to young summer acquisition Giovanni Leoni in September has kept Liverpool on the brink of crisis throughout the season, with Ibrahima Konaté and Virgil van Dijk being overworked. Despite the shortage of personnel, the Reds chose not to acquire defensive reinforcements during the January window—though they did secure a summer deal for Jérémy Jacquet, who has since sustained a shoulder problem at Rennes.
Could Wataru Endo Have Played His Final Liverpool Game?
Could Wataru Endo Have Played His Final Liverpool Game?
The extent of Endo's injury remains uncertain, but considering he needed a stretcher to exit the pitch and was clearly in considerable pain at Wearside, it wouldn't be shocking to see the experienced player out for an extended period.
Should Endo miss the rest of the season, there's a significant possibility he's already made his final appearance for the Reds.
Although he's been a dependable contributor since his unexpected arrival at Anfield, Slot has rarely relied on him for important matches since assuming control. With his deal running until 2027, Liverpool may look to improve upon the Japan captain this summer and capitalize on his reasonable transfer value while the opportunity exists.