Endo Return Welcomed After Slot's Szoboszlai Admission

Liverpool FC manager Arne Slot has expressed delight at the return of midfielder Wataru Endo from an ankle injury, especially as Dominik Szoboszlai has again been deployed out of position at right-back amid defensive shortages.

Endo, absent for around two months since early December, made a timely comeback to the matchday squad for Liverpool's recent 4-1 FA Cup win over Barnsley, appearing as a substitute alongside striker Hugo Ekitike, who also recovered from a muscle issue.[3][5] Slot confirmed Endo could start training soon, noting, “I think if I am correct, he might start to train one of these days, but he has been out for two months now.”[2] His expected return aligns with late January, potentially for the January 31 home game against Newcastle.[1][2][6]

The Japanese international's versatility in midfield and defense is crucial for Slot, particularly with Conor Bradley ruled out for the season following knee surgery after the Arsenal draw, and other absences like Alexander Isak (ankle, late April return), Mohamed Salah (AFCON), and defender Giovanni Leoni (ACL, August 2026).[1][2][3] This has forced Slot to improvise, asking Szoboszlai to fill the right-back slot once more, highlighting squad depth concerns.[5]

Endo's reintegration is seen as a major boost ahead of Saturday's Premier League clash with Burnley at Anfield, where Liverpool aim to stay in the top four after an 11-game unbeaten run.[1][3] Slot emphasized Endo's value, admitting the team had missed “quite a lot” during his absence.[4] With attackers like Cody Gakpo struggling and reliance on Federico Chiesa and Rio Ngumoha, Endo's return provides stability as Liverpool navigate injuries and push for Champions League spots.[1][3]

Fans and pundits welcome the news, viewing Endo as key to covering Bradley's void and supporting Slot's tactics. His limited minutes this season (just 43 in the Premier League) make upcoming fixtures ideal for rebuilding match fitness.[3]

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