Arne Slot has provided a potentially positive injury update regarding Wataru Endo, saying he is hopeful of him playing again this season.
Liverpool’s 1-0 win at Sunderland last week may have felt positive overall, but Endo’s serious-looking ankle injury was a big concern.
The Japanese was stretchered off after an awkward landing and it was only natural to wonder if his season was over.
Thankfully, Slot has told reporters that he believes Endo could still feature again in 2025/26, even though it isn’t a guarantee.
“There is definitely a chance, but he will be out for a while, but we cannot say exactly how long yet that is sometimes different with every injury,” Slot said.
“Sometimes you can make that diagnosis straight away; sometimes you need a few more days to see how things develop, and that last thing is with Wata.
“He will not be in the squad next week, and he will not be in the squad next month, but we’re hoping that towards the end of the season, he has a chance to be there with us again.
“But that also depends on the upcoming days, where that will lead to.”
When asked if Endo’s ankle was broken Slot then added: “We don’t know yet. It’s the first lie I’ve made over here!”
A final Liverpool goodbye for Endo in the spring?
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - Wednesday, October 29, 2025: Liverpool's Wataru Endo during the Football League Cup 4th Round match between Liverpool FC and Crystal Palace FC at Anfield. Palace won 3-0. (Photo by David Rawcliffe/Propaganda)
It would be a real shame if Endo didn’t play again for Liverpool this season, not least as it could mean he has played his final game for the club.
The 33-year-old is out of contract at Anfield in 2027, so there will be a natural temptation to cash in on him this summer.
Slot has struggled to hand Endo minutes this term – his only Premier League start came at Sunderland – and it could be that a younger squad option comes in instead.
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - Wednesday, October 29, 2025: Liverpool's Wataru Endo during the Football League Cup 4th Round match between Liverpool FC and Crystal Palace FC at Anfield. (Photo by David Rawcliffe/Propaganda)
But it would be ideal if Endo were able to make a few more appearances before his departure, having become such a popular figure among the Liverpool fanbase.
His professionalism and team ethic have always come to the fore, with his experience often key during late cameos, especially under Jurgen Klopp.
Fingers crossed there is good news coming in the next few days.