Liverpool international round up as Andy Robertson heads to USA ’26 | OneFootball

Andy Robertson Makes History as Liverpool’s Internationals Wrap Up Eventful Break

As Liverpool’s international contingent returned to Merseyside this week, several of Arne Slot’s players concluded their national duty with moments of drama, history and relief. Scotland’s qualification triumph under Andy Robertson, Japan’s captaincy return for Wataru Endo, and fitness reassurances from other Reds abroad have all shaped the mood heading into the Premier League’s resumption.

Robertson Leads Scotland to World Cup Glory

Andy Robertson’s leadership once again came to the fore as Scotland sealed their first World Cup appearance since 1998, defeating Denmark 4-2 in a gripping qualifier at Hampden Park.

The Liverpool full-back captained his country through a night of emotional highs and lows. After Scott McTominay’s spectacular overhead kick opened the scoring, an anxious moment arrived when Robertson was penalised for a second-half challenge on Gustav Isaksen following a lengthy VAR review. Rasmus Højlund converted from the spot, leaving the tie delicately balanced.

Denmark twice found equalisers, but late goals from Kieran Tierney and Kenny McLean — the latter striking from his own half — secured a famous Scottish victory. Despite the penalty scare, Robertson celebrated at full-time with his teammates, visibly moved by the scale of the achievement.

“It’s hard to put into words what this means,” Robertson told reporters post-match. “This is a dream for all of us — to lead my country to a World Cup is something I’ll never forget.”

Endo Returns to Form for Japan

Wataru Endo enjoyed a successful return to international duty, captaining Japan to a 3-0 win over Bolivia in Tokyo. Playing the full 90 minutes, the midfielder delivered a composed and disciplined display that highlighted his trademark tenacity and positional awareness.

Having missed the previous international window through injury, Endo’s performance offered reassurance for both Japan and Liverpool. However, the 31-year-old admitted after the match that his reduced club minutes have been a source of frustration.

“I’m not completely satisfied,” Endo confessed in a post-match interview. “I’ll go back to my club and work hard so that I can return stronger for Japan in March.”

Endo’s determination to reclaim a regular role under Slot will be a subplot to watch, particularly with Liverpool’s midfield competition intensifying as the season progresses.

Encouraging Signs from Other Reds Abroad

Elsewhere, several Liverpool players ended their international duties without concern. Swedish forward Alexander Isak, although an unused substitute in Sweden’s 1-1 draw with Slovenia, avoided further strain on his fitness following a recent injury — a decision likely to please Slot ahead of the Reds’ domestic return.

Meanwhile, Georgian goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili completed another full 90 minutes for his national team despite their 2-1 loss to Bulgaria. With Alisson Becker nearing full fitness, Mamardashvili’s recent run of games could prove invaluable experience if called upon in upcoming fixtures.

Young Reds Impress at Youth Level

Liverpool’s academy prospects Trey Nyoni and Rio Ngumoha also gained valuable international exposure during England Under-19s’ impressive week. The pair featured in victories over Lithuania, Latvia and Scotland, with Nyoni starting all three matches and Ngumoha coming off the bench in the final game.

Both players continue to build momentum as part of the club’s next generation, and their involvement at youth level will only strengthen Liverpool’s long-term depth.

As the international window closes, Slot will be encouraged by the blend of fitness, experience and leadership on display from his squad. Robertson’s milestone with Scotland embodies the resilience within this Liverpool group — and Endo’s drive to improve underlines a hunger that could define the months ahead.