Journalist: Liverpool star isn’t the answer to Arne Slot’s injury crisis | OneFootball

Lynch on Endo at Right-Back: “He Did Really Well” in Qarabag Win

With Liverpool’s full-back options stretched thin due to injuries to Conor Bradley, Jeremie Frimpong and Joe Gomez, Wataru Endo was unexpectedly called into action at right-back during the 6-0 Europa League win over Qarabag. Speaking on the Anfield Index: Media Matters podcast, journalist David Lynch gave his thoughts on Endo’s performance and whether the Japan international could provide short-term cover in the role.

“He Did Really Well”

Endo replaced Frimpong just 12 minutes into the match, slotting in on the right of defence — a position he’s rarely played for Liverpool. Lynch was quick to praise the 30-year-old’s display: “He did really well… actually was getting forward and causing them problems.”

Though Endo is naturally a defensive midfielder, Lynch acknowledged that his intelligence and discipline made him a viable option under the circumstances: “He’s got the footballing brain, hasn’t he, to just pick up a role.”

This ability to adapt has been a consistent theme since Endo’s arrival at Anfield. Initially seen as a stopgap, he has quietly become one of the more dependable members of Arne Slot’s squad, and his Qarabag cameo only strengthened that impression.

Not Ideal, But Slot May Have No Choice

Despite the strong showing, Lynch was clear that Endo playing right-back is far from ideal in the Premier League. “You’d be concerned if it was a league game,” he said. “They’re going to need something a little bit more mobile.”

The concern isn’t about Endo’s quality, but rather how his attributes match the demands of the role over 90 minutes against stronger opposition. Lynch explained: “He’s not the most mobile player in the world. He reads the game brilliantly, but he’s not quick.”

Still, with no senior right-backs available and Joe Gomez also sidelined, Liverpool may have to turn to Endo more than they would like. As Lynch put it: “We’re at a point now where you’re just asking people to do jobs.”

Photo: IMAGO

Emergency Cover, Not a Long-Term Option

While Endo’s performance showed he can fill in when necessary, Lynch was careful to frame this as a temporary solution. “He could do it for half an hour, 45 minutes, maybe even a game if you’re really desperate,” he said.

In fact, Lynch hinted that the issue is not just Endo’s suitability, but Liverpool’s overall lack of depth in the position: “The fact we’re talking about Endo playing right-back shows you where we’re at.”

He noted that with Conor Bradley, Frimpong and Gomez all unavailable or unfit, the club’s refusal to dip into the market could come under further scrutiny. But for now, Endo represents reliability in a moment of uncertainty.