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Liverpool left the Stadium of Light with exactly what they needed — three valuable points, a clean sheet, and momentum in their push up the table.
But the victory came at a cost.
As the celebrations faded, concern quickly replaced relief. Yet another injury has struck — and this one could have serious consequences for Arne Slot’s already stretched squad.
Endo’s Night Ends in Pain
Wataru Endo was handed a surprise start at right-back during the 1–0 win over Sunderland. With several regular options unavailable, Slot turned to the experienced midfielder to fill the gap in defence.
For much of the match, Liverpool remained compact and disciplined. Then, midway through the second half, the mood shifted dramatically.
Endo made an intelligent interception at the back post — the kind of defensive awareness managers value highly. But as he landed, his foot appeared to twist awkwardly underneath him. The reaction was immediate. Something wasn’t right.
Initially, there was hope. After receiving treatment on the pitch, Endo bravely attempted to continue. That brief return gave supporters reason to believe the issue might only be temporary discomfort.
Unfortunately, that optimism didn’t last.
Within minutes, it became clear he could not carry on. Medical staff rushed back onto the pitch, and Endo was eventually stretchered off with his leg supported. Joe Gomez replaced him as Liverpool held onto their narrow lead.
After the match, Slot did little to calm fears. The manager admitted the injury “doesn’t look good” and suggested the Japanese international could face a lengthy spell on the sidelines. Such wording rarely signals a quick recovery.
A Tough Break for a Player Waiting for His Chance
The timing feels especially cruel.
Endo has not been a regular starter in the Premier League this season. Opportunities have been limited, and when one finally arrived, it ended in distressing fashion.
Observers noted his determination to continue playing despite clear discomfort. That decision reflected his mentality — not the severity of the injury. Players desperate to impress often push beyond the pain barrier, but sometimes the body refuses to cooperate.
Slot even praised Endo’s resilience, revealing that the midfielder stayed on just long enough to help defend a set piece before admitting he could go no further. That detail speaks volumes about his commitment.
Why This Injury Hurts More Than Most
In isolation, losing a versatile squad player is manageable. In Liverpool’s current situation, however, this setback carries greater weight.
Endo was deployed at right-back because several other options are already unavailable. Conor Bradley remains sidelined. Jeremie Frimpong has been out. Other players have been used there in emergency situations. Gomez himself has only recently returned to fitness.
In other words, Endo wasn’t a tactical gamble — he was the best available solution.
Now that solution has disappeared.
Constant reshuffling at right-back disrupts more than just one position. It affects build-up play, defensive balance, pressing patterns, and the chemistry on the right side of the pitch. Stability in that role is vital, and Liverpool have rarely enjoyed it this season.
A Pattern That’s Becoming Hard to Ignore
There’s growing frustration around the recurring issues in that position. Every time a temporary fix is found, another setback follows.
It creates a chain reaction: one injury forces adjustment, the adjustment suffers a problem, and the cycle continues.
For Slot, this means more improvisation. And improvisation, while sometimes necessary, rarely offers long-term security.
What Happens Next?
Attention now turns to Liverpool’s upcoming FA Cup clash with Brighton. Supporters will be anxiously awaiting a medical update on Endo. If scans confirm significant ankle or foot damage, the timeline could stretch into weeks — possibly longer.
In the short term, Gomez appears the most natural replacement if his fitness allows consistent minutes. If Frimpong is close to returning, his comeback would provide timely relief.
If not, Slot may once again be forced to use players out of position — a risky approach that carries tactical compromises.
Three Points — But at What Cost?
Liverpool secured the result they needed. The clean sheet and defensive discipline offered encouragement.
Yet once again, victory has been overshadowed by injury concerns.
This season has developed a familiar pattern: fight through adversity, earn the points, and then add another name to the medical list.
How long can that cycle continue before it takes a heavier toll?
For now, Liverpool march on. But the price of progress is rising — and the squad is being tested like never before.
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