Endo Injury Deals Blow to Liverpool’s Defensive Depth
Liverpool face a potentially lengthy absence for midfielder Wataru Endo following a foot injury sustained during Wednesday’s 1-0 Premier League victory at Sunderland. Manager Arne Slot confirmed the injury will keep the Japanese international sidelined for “quite a long time,” adding to the Reds’ growing injury concerns, particularly in the full-back positions.
Endo, who was making his first league start of the season while filling in at right-back, was stretchered off in the second half after attempting a clearance. The injury occurred in a game where Liverpool secured a narrow win, but at a significant cost. Slot, speaking at a press conference on Friday, offered a grim assessment of the situation. “A foot injury,” he stated. “We still need to do some assessments but it’s clear and obvious that he will be out for quite a long time.”
The timing of the injury is particularly problematic for Liverpool. The club is already grappling with long-term absences in the full-back area, with Jeremie Frimpong and Conor Bradley both sidelined. Dominik Szoboszlai, a natural midfielder, had been deployed at right-back in their absence, but was suspended for the Sunderland match following a red card against Manchester City. Endo’s injury further depletes Slot’s options and highlights a growing vulnerability in the defensive line.
Slot acknowledged the precarious situation, stating that the team is “quite vulnerable” in those positions if further injuries occur. He emphasized the importance of careful player management to avoid additional setbacks. “Manajemen waktu main sangat penting karena kami tidak ingin lagi ada pemain yang cedera,” Slot said, translated from Indonesian. “This always makes it difficult for a manager, including the medical staff, to make the best decisions at all times. It is true that players can get injured if they play three games a week. But there are also players who can play three times a week.”
The 32-year-old Endo has had limited playing time this season, making 12 appearances in all competitions, with only three starts. However, his versatility – capable of playing as both a central midfielder and a full-back – made him a valuable squad member. His absence will force Slot to rely on alternative solutions, potentially including further rotation of players and utilizing midfielders out of position.
The injury comes at a particularly unfortunate time for Endo, whose contract with Liverpool runs until June 2027. Opportunities have been limited this season, and this setback could further restrict his playing time. Despite the challenges, Slot remains focused on navigating a demanding schedule with matches in three competitions.
“So, that’s our challenge at the moment, but the important thing is that we can train today, see what the players are like, listen to their complaints and make the best decisions,” Slot explained. The manager will need to carefully balance the need to compete on multiple fronts with the risk of further injuries.
Liverpool will be boosted by the return of Szoboszlai from suspension for their FA Cup fourth-round clash against Brighton & Hove Albion at Anfield on Sunday. Curtis Jones, another midfielder who has featured at right-back, is also available. However, the loss of Endo represents a significant blow to the team’s defensive depth and tactical flexibility.
The extent of Endo’s injury remains under assessment, but Slot’s comments suggest a prolonged period on the sidelines. This will undoubtedly test Liverpool’s squad depth and require Slot to make difficult decisions regarding team selection and player rotation as they continue their pursuit of success in the Premier League, FA Cup, and other competitions.
The situation underscores the relentless physical demands placed on players in modern football and the importance of proactive injury prevention strategies. Liverpool will be hoping for positive news on the injury front in the coming days, but for now, they must cope with the absence of a key squad member and navigate a challenging period with a depleted defensive unit.
