Sunderland’s fairytale run in the Premier League hit a roadblock on Wednesday, but Liverpool’s victory at the Stadium of Light came at a cost. While Arne Slot’s side secured a 1-0 win, a growing injury crisis, particularly at right-back, deepened with Wataru Endo being stretchered off in the second half.
The Japan international, unexpectedly deployed at right-back, suffered what Slot described as a “serious” injury after an awkward fall. The exact nature of the injury is still under assessment, with the Liverpool manager admitting it doesn’t “look good.” Further tests are scheduled to determine the extent of the damage, but Slot conceded that Endo is likely to be sidelined for a “long, long time.” ’s match saw Endo attempting a crucial clearance inside the box when the incident occurred.
Endo’s injury adds to a mounting list of absentees in the right-back position for Liverpool. Conor Bradley and Jeremie Frimpong are already sidelined, forcing Slot to experiment with different players in the role. Curtis Jones and Joe Gomez have both featured there this season, and Endo became the seventh Liverpool player to start at right-back this campaign before his untimely exit from the match. The situation is becoming increasingly problematic for Slot, who highlighted the unusual strain the position has placed on his squad this season.
The timing of Endo’s injury is particularly concerning, with the player’s potential absence raising questions about Liverpool’s defensive stability and tactical flexibility. While Slot praised the team’s character and defensive resilience in securing the win against Sunderland – the first team to defeat Sunderland at home in the Premier League this season – the long-term impact of losing a key player like Endo is undeniable.
The win at the Stadium of Light was crucial for Liverpool, moving them to within three points of fourth-placed Manchester United in the Premier League standings. However, the victory was tempered by the sight of Endo being carried off the pitch, a stark reminder of the physical demands of the season and the fragility of player fitness.
Slot’s post-match comments underscored the severity of the situation. “Yes it is a serious one but how serious we don’t know yet,” he stated. “Because it has to be assessed tomorrow of course, but it doesn’t look good. I am not too sure if it is his ankle, if it is his foot but if it is his ankle, that is what we have to assess tomorrow. But I assume he will be out for a long time.”
The injury also raises concerns for the Japanese national team, as Endo’s potential absence could jeopardize his participation in upcoming international competitions. The injury is a blow to both club and country, highlighting the interconnectedness of the modern game and the impact of injuries on players’ careers and national team aspirations.
The circumstances surrounding Endo’s injury are particularly frustrating for Liverpool, given the existing injury problems in the right-back area. The club has been forced to improvise with different players in the position, and the constant rotation has undoubtedly disrupted the team’s defensive cohesion. The reliance on players out of position underscores the need for Liverpool to address the depth in that area of the squad.
Despite the injury setback, Liverpool demonstrated resilience and determination in overcoming Sunderland. The team’s ability to defend resolutely and secure a hard-fought victory speaks volumes about their character and commitment. However, the long-term success of the season will depend on the club’s ability to manage the injury crisis and find solutions to the defensive challenges.
Mohamed Salah also featured in the match, though his performance drew some scrutiny. Frank Leboeuf questioned Salah’s form, suggesting his talent had “disappeared.” However, Slot praised the overall team effort, highlighting the contributions of players like Ibou Konaté, Alexis Mac Allister, and Endo himself, who continued to challenge for duels even after sustaining his injury.
The injury to Endo is the latest in a series of setbacks for Liverpool this season, and Slot will be hoping for positive news from the medical assessment. The club’s ability to navigate this challenging period will be crucial as they continue to push for a top-four finish in the Premier League and compete in other competitions.
The situation at right-back is now a critical concern for Liverpool. With Bradley and Frimpong already sidelined, and Endo facing a potentially lengthy spell on the sidelines, Slot will need to find a reliable solution to fill the void. Gomez’s availability offers some relief, but the club may need to consider other options, including potential signings, to address the long-term issue.
As Liverpool looks ahead, the focus will be on managing the injury crisis, maintaining defensive stability, and continuing to compete at the highest level. The win against Sunderland was a positive step, but the injury to Endo serves as a sobering reminder of the challenges that lie ahead.
