Liverpool injury update: Latest news on Alexander Isak, Wataru Endo and Alexis McAllister
Liverpool continue to deal with key injuries as the season enters a decisive phase. Arne Slott’s side are Premier League champions in 2024/25 and remain competitive on multiple fronts, but the health of the squad remains an ongoing topic.
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Ahead of the trip to Istanbul to face Galatasaray, the availability of several key players has come under scrutiny. Midfield balance, attacking options and squad depth could all be affected, especially with the updates of Alexander Isak and Wataru Endo.
Here’s the latest injury news and potential return timetable for Liverpool.
Alexis Mac Allister Fitness Follow
Liverpool midfielder Alexis McAllister was forced off during Molineux’s FA Cup tie against Wolves after a fierce challenge from Hwang Hee-chan. The Argentine appeared to have sprained his knee during the incident and required treatment on the pitch before being substituted.
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The change was reportedly planned before the tackle was made, easing immediate concerns. Mike Allister has also left the field on his own, another encouraging sign.
Photo: IMAGO
Speaking after the game, Slaughter didn’t appear overly concerned.
“I think so, yes.”
Liverpool will assess the midfielder again ahead of their European tour. There is currently cautious optimism that Mike Allister will still be available for Galatasaray.
Possible return date: March 10 vs. Galatasaray (away)
Alexander Isak recovery timeline
Liverpool supporters saw few of the best from Alexander Isak during his first season at Anfield. The Swedish striker became the club’s record summer signing after being forced to move from Newcastle, but injuries severely disrupted his season.
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Isaac has been sidelined since December with a serious ankle injury. The problem occurred shortly after he scored in Liverpool’s 2-1 win over Tottenham Hotspur when a challenge from Mickey van de Veen resulted in a fractured fibula.
The forward has missed 17 games since that setback.
Photo: IMAGO
Sweden head coach Graham Potter recently hinted that Isak could return during the international break. However, Slaughter took a more cautious stance on the forward’s recovery.
“It will be somewhere nearby [the March international break] And then the question is always whether things are going well or whether he’s had a little setback.
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“So, around the end of March, beginning of April, he will hopefully be back with the team.
“When you come back into the team it’s not like you’re ready to play a game of football, let alone start, because he’s been out for a few months and the last time he was out for a few months I think we can all see that it took him a while to become the player we signed from Newcastle.”
Reports in Sweden also indicate that the international community is unlikely to get involved this month. Liverpool will prioritize a cautious return to full fitness.
Possible return date: late March or early April
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Wataru Endo faces long-term absence
Midfielder Wataru Endo will face a longer absence. The Japan international started in Liverpool’s win over Sunderland on February 11, but was stretchered off in the second half with a foot injury.
Initial assessments are not encouraging.
Slaughter admitted after the game: “Vata will be out for a long time. We don’t know exactly how long, but it will be a long time.”
Japan head coach Hajime Moriyasu later confirmed that Endo had undergone surgery and recovery was expected to take several months.
“I heard he had surgery. I heard the surgery went well, but I don’t know the details.”
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“The plan is to have him ready in time for the World Cup, so the rehabilitation process starting with surgery is being considered.
“He, the club and we all have the same understanding to go to the World Cup.”
Endo’s absence leaves Liverpool with fewer defensive midfield options amid a tight schedule.
Possible return date: June
Liverpool’s squad depth is key
As the game progressed, Liverpool’s injury situation highlighted the importance of depth. With Alexander Isak still working his way back and Wataru Endo facing a long recovery process, the team’s rotation will be crucial.
Slaughter is encouraged that players such as Florian Wirtz have returned from injury, bolstering the attacking options. If Mike Allister avoids serious problems, Liverpool will retain much of the stability in the midfield.
As Liverpool prepare for important domestic and European competitions, careful management of returning players like Isak will be crucial to maintaining momentum.
