Liverpool boss Arne Slot shares his admiration for Wataru Endo both as a football player and as a human being. Slot has consistently praised Endo this season despite the Japanese star’s restricted role in the senior team during this season.
Endo has played a limited game this season, featuring more frequently as a substitute for Slot to control the game. Former legendary manager Jurgen Klopp signed Endo last season as a defensive midfielder after selling Fabinho during the same window.
While Klopp’s style of play suited Endo, the tactical approach from Slot requires a defensive midfielder of a different profile. The Dutch head coach has used Ryan Gravenberch as the defensive midfielder, who has enjoyed an incredible season for Liverpool.
Endo remains a crucial cog for Liverpool despite getting limited game time as he strengthens the defence with his cameos. Liverpool fans adore the Japan captain, and despite the rumours of his potential exit in the summer, they hope for him to stay.
Speaking in the post-Newcastle United match press conference (via Liverpoolfc.com), Slot praised Endo and his importance at Liverpool. He said:
“I appreciate him a lot as a football player but also as a human being because no matter how many minutes the team needs him [for], he always shows up. The reason why he always shows up – and that is what makes him special, and I’ve said it a few times before – is players, and I have worked with many that were in a similar situation like him, don’t always find the energy to train well the day after a game when they didn’t have playing time or two days after a game, but it doesn’t matter which day of the week it is or if he has played, he always gives his best in every training session and, as a result of that, every time the team needs him he shows up. That’s a big compliment for him, that he brings performances in like he did today.”
Liverpool fans voted Endo as the Carlsberg Player of the Match for his 20-minute Premier League cameo against the Wolves. That performance highlights his importance for the team and Slot as he remains vigilant, irrespective of the team’s requirement.
The 31-year-old always puts the collective goal over his desires, staying ready and professional to do the job that his boss demands. That attitude is essential for Liverpool and a good blueprint for young players to copy and learn from.
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Liverpool are currently at the top of the Premier League table with a 13-point lead over Arsenal. Furthermore, they will face Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League round of 16 with Endo having a big role to play ahead.
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