Slot Devises Bold Plan Amidst Liverpool Defensive Crisis

Liverpool's manager, Arne Slot, is grappling with a severe defensive shortage ahead of the team's Champions League fixture against Qarabag. Key defenders Joe Gomez and Ibrahima Konate are unavailable, with Gomez sidelined due to a hip injury sustained in a recent match and Konate granted compassionate leave following his father's passing.

Adding to the challenge, summer signing Giovanni Leoni is out for the remainder of the season. This leaves Slot with limited options, forcing him to consider an unconventional solution for the centre-back position alongside Virgil van Dijk.

Slot revealed that a midfielder is almost certain to fill the void, stating no natural centre-backs would be available besides Van Dijk. This situation opens the door for Wataru Endo, primarily a defensive midfielder, to potentially play at centre-back.

Endo has prior experience in this role from his time playing for Japanese clubs Shonan Bellmare and Urawa Red Diamonds. His selection would mark a significant shift, as his European career has predominantly seen him operate in a deeper midfield role.

Liverpool currently sits fourth in their Champions League group with 15 points. A victory against Qarabag would guarantee their progression to the round of 16, avoiding a playoff match amidst a demanding schedule.