Wataru Endo is facing a long-term layoff with his ankle injury and Joe Gomez has hinted it could be a season-ender for Liverpool, with eyes on the World Cup.
Endo was in agony in the turf as he caught his ankle in a challenge during Liverpool’s 1-0 win over Sunderland, having briefly played on to defend a set-piece.
The midfielder has undergone scans to assess the severity of the injury but speaking in his press conference on Friday Arne Slot could not give a final verdict.
But ahead of further tests on Endo’s ankle, team-mate Gomez has given a worrying update with a hint that his season may be over.
“Hopefully he comes back as soon as possible and has a chance to go to the World Cup,” Gomez told Liverpool’s official website.
Wataru Endo, Japan. (Pic by David Rawcliffe/Propaganda)
That suggests that, while Liverpool will hope their No. 3 returns before the campaign ends, Endo’s focus may be on recovering in time for the summer World Cup with Japan.
Endo is captain of his country and played a key role in securing qualification to a tournament which will take place in the United States, Canada and Mexico between June 11 and July 19.
Having been an unused substitute throughout the 2018 World Cup he started in three of four games at the 2022 edition but saw Japan knocked out at the round of 16.
Now 33 and seeing his role with the national team decrease, this will be seen as a last-chance opportunity for Endo at the World Cup.
For now, the priority will be on ensuring a smooth recovery and a possible return for Liverpool before the end of the season – with surgery not yet ruled out.
SUNDERLAND, ENGLAND - Wednesday, February 11, 2026: Liverpool's Wataru End? is greeted by Joe Gomez (L) as he carried on a stretcher injured during the FA Premier League match between Sunderland AFC and Liverpool FC at the Stadium of Light. (Photo by David Rawcliffe/Propaganda)
“I’m gutted for Wata. He’s such a treasured part of this squad and we appreciate him so much,” Gomez continued.
“Who he is as a person and how he plays, I think that showed in him trying to carry on.
“I think we all know that it’s such a frustrating part of the game and we know how hard he’ll work to come back stronger.”
Endo has joined Alexander Isak (broken leg), Giovanni Leoni (ACL) and Conor Bradley (knee) on the long-term injury list, while Jeremie Frimpong is also currently sidelined with a groin issue.
Frimpong and Isak have both resumed gym work at the AXA Training Centre and the right-back is not expected to be far off a return to action.