Liverpool gets medical verdict on Wataru Endo injury after latest setback

Wataru Endo looks set for a long lay-off after being stretchered off against Sunderland, with one injury expert having given some insight into how long the Liverpool midfielder could be out for

Wataru Endo had to be stretchered off after picking up an in jury in Liverpool's win over Sunderland(Image: Getty Images)

Wataru Endo’s season may already be over after being stretchered off in Liverpool’s win over Sunderland, according to one injury expert.

The Japan international’s withdrawal during the second half put a dampener on what was a crucial victory for the Reds as they look to qualify for next season’s Champions League. Having landed awkwardly on his ankle, Endo attempted to play on before having to admit defeat and being carried off.

Arne Slot has already admitted he’s not hopeful of any positive news on the injury, which leaves him with even fewer options in defense, with Endo having been filling in at right-back amid the absences of Conor Bradley, Jeremie Frimpong and the suspended Dominik Szoboszlai.

Endo is set to have his injury assessed before the weekend, with no official word yet on how long he could be out of action for, although one injury expert has given some insight.

According to soccer injury analyst Physio Scout, the midfielder could be out for more than three months, which would almost certainly spell the end of his season.

Outlining what the injury could be, it’s explained: “Forced eversion at the ankle after putting his bodyweight on it brings concern for a high-ankle sprain/syndesmosis injury.

Wataru Endo could be out for more than three months, according to one injury expert(Image: Getty Images)

“Due to the high velocity, scans will also need to rule out any lower-leg fracture - fibula is usually the structure at risk here.”

Endo could therefore be facing a similar problem to Alexander Isak - the striker fractured his fibula against Tottenham in December, but is hoped to be able to return before the end of the season.

Three possible timeframes are given for Endo’s absence, depending on the injury sustained. A fibula fracture on its own would need six to 10 weeks of recovery, while a high ankle sprain would require eight to 10 weeks, although both outcomes would need surgery.

The worst case scenario, involving both a sprain and a fracture, would require more than 12 weeks of recovery. Slot has confirmed Liverpool will find out more on Thursday, although the Reds’ boss is not confident.

"Yes it is a serious one but how serious we don't know yet," Slot said after the game.

"Because it has to be assessed tomorrow of course, but it doesn't look good. I am not too sure if it is his ankle, it is his foot but if it is his ankle, that is what we have to assess tomorrow. But I assume he will be out for a long time.

"And what is 'long' that is difficult to say at this moment but, yes, you can hardly believe what this right-full back position brings us this season."