Slot Offers New Injury Update Following Cup Advancement at Anfield
Arne Slot Issues New Wataru Endo Injury Update After FA Cup Victory
Arne Slot has delivered a fresh update on Wataru Endo following Liverpool F.C.’s 3–0 FA Cup triumph over Brighton & Hove Albion F.C.. The Liverpool head coach confirmed the 32-year-old midfielder is set for several weeks on the sidelines, with a clearer recovery timeline still pending.
Goals from Curtis Jones, Dominik Szoboszlai, and Mohamed Salah secured progression at Anfield. However, concerns remain over Endo, who has been out since sustaining a foot injury against Sunderland A.F.C..
Speaking after the match, Slot admitted the short-term outlook is disappointing, though there is cautious optimism that Endo could return before the season concludes. He indicated the midfielder will not feature in the coming weeks — or even next month — but the club hopes he might rejoin the squad toward the end of the campaign.
Slot emphasized that determining an exact recovery period remains difficult. Swelling and pain responses can evolve after the initial injury, meaning medical staff require additional time to properly assess the full extent of the issue.
The setback comes at a challenging moment for squad depth. Endo has already been deployed out of position this season due to defensive shortages, and his absence further reduces reliable cover. While Jones’ performance at full-back against Brighton offered encouragement, Endo’s injury highlights how quickly availability can become a concern.
His absence is particularly frustrating given his limited minutes this season. With just 12 appearances and 455 minutes across competitions, Endo has struggled to find consistent rhythm, making another extended spell out feel like yet another disruption.
Slot had previously hinted at the severity of the problem, describing it as a significant foot injury that would require thorough assessment. Reports of on-pitch treatment during the Sunderland match had already suggested it was more than a minor knock.
For now, the message is clear: Endo faces a prolonged period on the sidelines, with any realistic hope of a comeback focused on the closing stages of the season rather than the immediate fixture list.
