At this point, Arne Slot could be forgiven for thinking there’s something supernatural going on at Liverpool.

Just when it seems the Reds might be catching a break on the injury front, another setback arrives. And this latest blow during the clash with Sunderland only deepened an already frustrating situation.

Defensive Problems Mount Before Kick-Off

Heading into the game at the Stadium of Light, Liverpool were already short of options.

Jeremie Frimpong and Conor Bradley were both unavailable, while Joe Gomez — recently back in the squad — started on the bench. With Dominik Szoboszlai suspended, Slot was forced into yet another reshuffle at right-back.

This time, Wataru Endo stepped into the unfamiliar role.

It was a makeshift solution in a season that has seen far too many of them.

From Celebration to Concern

Liverpool appeared to be in control when they broke the deadlock just after the hour mark. A powerful Virgil van Dijk header from a corner caused chaos in the Sunderland box, eventually resulting in Habib Diarra turning the ball into his own net.

But the mood shifted dramatically moments later.

While cutting out a Sunderland attack, Endo awkwardly caught his foot in the turf. The Japanese midfielder immediately went down in visible pain. Although he briefly tried to continue, it quickly became clear he couldn’t carry on.

The 33-year-old was eventually stretchered off, looking distraught — a worrying sight for teammates and supporters alike. Gomez was introduced in his place, but the damage had already been done.

The Right-Back Role – A Season-Long Curse?

It’s becoming a recurring theme.

Bradley is sidelined for an extended period, Frimpong has endured multiple injury interruptions, and Gomez has already had spells on the treatment table. Now Endo, drafted in as emergency cover, may also be facing time out.

Incredibly, this was his first Premier League start of the 2025/26 campaign — and it ended in heartbreak.

The situation almost feels like the right-back position at Liverpool has been hexed this season. Even players temporarily filling the role seem unable to escape misfortune.

A Small Silver Lining

There is, at least, some relief on the horizon.

Gomez’s return adds depth to Slot’s defensive choices, and Szoboszlai will be back available after serving his suspension.

Still, the constant setbacks are testing Liverpool’s resilience.

All eyes will now be on updates regarding Endo’s condition. For the Reds’ sake, and for the player himself, everyone will be hoping the injury isn’t as serious as it initially appeared.

Because right now, Liverpool could really do without another long-term absence.