Liverpool Captain Van Dijk 'Really Gutted' as Endo Suffers Season-Threatening Injury
Liverpool have been dealt a severe blow with the confirmation of a significant injury to midfielder Wataru Endo, leaving captain Virgil van Dijk "really gutted" over the cruel setback. The Japan international sustained a foot injury during Liverpool's 1-0 victory over Sunderland last week, potentially sidelining him for the remainder of the season.
Endo's Devastating Setback on Premier League Debut
In a particularly cruel twist, Endo's injury occurred during his first Premier League start of the season. The 33-year-old was stretchered off at the Stadium of Light after catching his foot in the turf while making a clearance. Manager Arne Slot had deployed Endo at right-back due to injuries to specialists Conor Bradley and Jeremie Frimpong, highlighting the squad's defensive crisis.
Van Dijk, who experienced a similar foot injury during his Southampton days, expressed profound disappointment. "It's a shame, we were all really gutted after the game," the Liverpool captain stated. "He is such an important and respected member of the team, one of the leaders who always leads by example. On the pitch he gives everything, so it's a big blow."
Uncertain Recovery Timeline and Squad Impact
Slot has provided limited details about Endo's recovery, acknowledging the uncertainty surrounding the diagnosis. "There is definitely a chance he can return before season's end, but he will be out for a while," the manager revealed after Liverpool's 3-0 FA Cup win over Brighton. "We cannot say exactly how long yet. Sometimes you need days to see how it develops - that's true for Wata."
The injury compounds Liverpool's selection headaches, with Endo joining Stefan Bajcetic, Jayden Danns, Alexander Isak, and Giovanni Leoni on the treatment table ahead of Sunday's Premier League clash against Nottingham Forest. Despite making only 12 appearances across all competitions this season due to fierce competition, Endo's experience and dressing room presence will be sorely missed.
Van Dijk's Support and Team Resilience
Van Dijk emphasized the collective support for Endo during his rehabilitation. "We are here for him, we are going to be together with him all the way and support him with everything he needs," the Dutch defender affirmed. "Hopefully it's not going to take too long, but it looks like it will be a while. We have to deal with it and we will."
Slot's cautious optimism about a potential late-season return offers some hope, but the manager admitted diagnostic challenges. "Is it broken? We don't know yet," Slot conceded, adding wryly, "That's the first lie I've made since I've been over here." This injury crisis tests Liverpool's squad depth as they navigate crucial domestic fixtures, with Van Dijk's leadership pivotal in maintaining team morale during this challenging period.
