Liverpool’s slim 1-0 victory over Sunderland came at a high cost, as midfielder Wataru Endo faces a potentially long-term absence after sustaining a serious ankle injury during the match at the Stadium of Light on Thursday, February 12, 2026.
Endo had to be stretchered off in the second half after his foot appeared to get caught on the turf. Manager Arne Slot confirmed that while the full extent of the injury remains uncertain, early signs do not look promising.
“Yes, it is a serious injury, but how serious, we don’t know yet,” Slot said. “It will be assessed tomorrow, but it doesn’t look good. I’m not entirely sure if it’s his ankle or the leg, but if it’s the ankle, we need to evaluate it. I expect he might be out for a long time.”
When asked to clarify the duration, Slot admitted that it’s still too early to provide specifics, but the implication of losing Endo, especially in a crucial defensive position, is significant.
Liverpool’s Injury List Expands
Endo started the match as a right-back, stepping into a role that has recently been plagued by injuries. He joins the growing list of players sidelined in this position, following Conor Bradley and Jeremie Frimpong.
Despite the setback, Liverpool managed to secure all three points, reducing the gap to fourth-placed Manchester United to just three points. Notably, Liverpool became the first team to defeat Sunderland at home in the Premier League this season.
Slot praised his squad’s mentality, particularly in critical phases of the game.
“We had the biggest opportunity in added time through Mo Salah,” Slot noted. “But I am pleased with how we defended. There were several moments when players had to throw their bodies to block the ball.”
Player Mentality and Fan Support
Slot highlighted Endo’s determination to stay on the pitch despite his injury, emphasizing the player’s resilience and leadership.
“Wata (Endo), I mention him because he got injured but continued to compete against the opposition. That mentality is visible across the team. Ibou (Konate) played excellently, Mo worked incredibly hard, and Macca (Alexis Mac Allister) made crucial tackles,” Slot explained.
Fan support also played a pivotal role in the victory, particularly during the final 20 minutes when Sunderland increased pressure.
“It was incredibly helpful that our supporters were so loud. This stadium is known for its home fans, but our traveling fans were outstanding, especially in the last 20 minutes when the team needed it the most,” he said.
Slot added, “Maybe they felt things often went wrong for the team in the closing stages previously, and now it was our turn to have support. It worked perfectly. I hope every time we take the lead, at home or away, fans can provide that level of backing.”
Implications for the 2026 FIFA World Cup
Endo’s injury raises wider concerns, particularly about his participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, scheduled to begin on June 11 across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Japan is set to play its first match on June 14 against the Netherlands at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.
As captain of the Japan national team, Endo is expected to be part of coach Hajime Moriyasu’s final squad, despite limited minutes at Liverpool this season.
However, the severity of the ankle injury now casts doubt on his availability for football’s biggest stage. His participation will largely depend on medical assessments in the coming weeks, making it a tense waiting period for both club and country.
Mental and Tactical Impact on Liverpool
Losing Endo would not only weaken Liverpool’s midfield depth but also add pressure on defensive organization. Endo’s versatility and ability to operate both as a defensive midfielder and right-back has been crucial under Slot’s tactical setup.
Liverpool will need to adjust strategies and possibly rely on other squad members to fill the void if Endo’s recovery extends over several weeks. Meanwhile, the club can take solace in the fact that the narrow win against Sunderland maintained their momentum in the league race.
Slot emphasized that while results are important, the welfare of his players comes first. “We will focus on recovery and rehabilitation,” he stated. “The team must be ready to adapt, and we will manage the situation carefully.”
Looking Ahead
Liverpool now faces a critical period in the season, balancing league ambitions while managing player fitness. Fans and pundits alike will closely monitor updates regarding Wataru Endo, whose leadership and physical presence have become increasingly vital.
The coming weeks will determine not only his availability for Liverpool but also his potential participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, making this injury a significant storyline in European and international football circles.
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