Big setback for Liverpool as Endo faces a serious injury concern.

Liverpool left the Stadium of Light with everything they wanted — three points, a clean sheet and renewed momentum. But the win came at a price.

Wataru Endo, handed a surprise start at right-back in the 1–0 victory over Sunderland, suffered what looks to be a serious injury. With other options unavailable, Arne Slot turned to the midfielder to fill in defensively, and he performed solidly for much of the match.

The turning point came midway through the second half. After making a sharp interception at the back post, Endo landed awkwardly and appeared to twist his foot. Though he briefly tried to continue after treatment, it quickly became clear he couldn’t carry on. He was stretchered off, with Joe Gomez stepping in to help see out the result.

After the game, Slot admitted the injury “doesn’t look good,” hinting at a potentially lengthy absence.

The setback feels particularly harsh for Endo, who has had limited Premier League starts this season. His attempt to play on — even staying up long enough to help defend a set piece — underlined his commitment, but also the seriousness of the problem.

This injury carries extra weight given Liverpool’s ongoing issues at right-back. Conor Bradley and Jeremie Frimpong have both been sidelined, and Gomez has only recently returned to fitness. Endo wasn’t a gamble — he was the best available solution. Now, that option is gone.

Constant reshuffling in that role has disrupted balance and stability, and Slot may again be forced into makeshift adjustments unless reinforcements return soon. With an FA Cup tie against Brighton looming, attention now turns to the medical update. If scans confirm significant damage, Endo could be facing weeks — or longer — out.

Liverpool got the result they needed. But once again, victory has been overshadowed by injury — a pattern that continues to test the squad’s depth and resilience.