Arne Slot Adds Two Players to Liverpool Squad with Reds Crippled by Injury Crisis

Liverpool FC faces a deepening injury crisis as manager Arne Slot has called up two players to bolster the squad ahead of crucial matches, amid mounting concerns over key absences.[1][2]

The latest blow came in Wednesday's 1-0 victory over Sunderland, where midfielder Wataru Endo suffered a serious foot injury while deputizing at right-back. Slot delivered a bleak assessment, stating, "His injury doesn’t look good. I expect him to be out unfortunately for quite a long time."[1][2] Endo was stretchered off after 70 minutes, having heroically defended a corner despite the pain, showcasing remarkable mentality.[1]

This exacerbates Liverpool's woes at right-back, with Conor Bradley ruled out for the season, Jeremie Frimpong still sidelined (though nearing return), and limited faith in Calvin Ramsay. Slot was forced into the emergency switch due to Dominik Szoboszlai's suspension.[1] The Reds are now on a "skeleton crew," with Joe Gomez returning from injury to replace Endo but needed across defense.[1][2]

In brighter news, Slot provided an encouraging update on star striker Alexander Isak, Liverpool's £125 million summer signing from Newcastle. Out since a December fibula and ankle fracture against Tottenham, Isak has begun light pitch work in running shoes. "It’s still going to take some time," Slot noted, targeting a return around late March or early April, pending no setbacks.[3][4] The 26-year-old will gradually reintegrate, starting with ball training before full team involvement.

Slot emphasized load management amid the fixture pile-up, including an FA Cup clash with Brighton. "The last thing we could use right now is another injury," he rued, highlighting the fine margins in recent games.[2] With the defense depleted and attack missing its record buy, Slot's additions aim to provide much-needed depth as Liverpool battles on multiple fronts.

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