Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp praised “hardest-working” Wataru Endo and highlighted the qualities he brings to the squad
Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp lauded the work ethic of new defensive midfielder Wataru Endo and highlighted his qualities. Endo has produced some strong performances in recent games after struggling with the pace of the league at the beginning.
The Japan captain is currently the only natural number six available in the Reds squad. Injuries have sidelined Thiago and Stefan Bajcetic since the beginning of the season, and their return dates remain unknown.
Klopp has deployed vice-captain Trent Alexander-Arnold as a number six, particularly in the latter part of the games. The 24-year-old has shown his immense playmaking ability, creating many threats and dictating the tempo of the game.
Speaking at the pre-Arsenal press conference (h/t Liverpool FC’s Official Site), Klopp highlighted the qualities that Endo brings to the senior team. He said:
“You need a bit of time, that’s all. We see him every day in training and he is one of the hardest-working people I ever met. It was always clear that it will be good, but I’m happy obviously for him that the public could see it now as well, because that’s pretty helpful in our job. Yeah, it was a really good game [against West Ham]. And he gives something different to the team, we have to say, that’s clear. He’s the one for the tackles.”
In a surprising move, Liverpool secured the signing of Endo from Stuttgart for £16.2m after losing out to Chelsea in the bid for Moises Caicedo. The signing surprised everyone because the Reds usually do not target a player in their 30s.
The signing received a lot of scepticism while Liverpool faced criticism due to their meagre spending. The Reds’ spending has divided the fanbase in half over the years with many condemning the ownership for it.
Liverpool owners have been very risk-averse in their tactics on the transfer market which has hurt the club’s trophy aspirations. Meanwhile, under Klopp’s leadership, the Reds’ hierarchy has conducted astute business and warrants support.
TRENT ALEXANDER-ARNOLD GIVES LIVERPOOL A LATE LEAD
— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) December 3, 2023
TRENT SCORES THE GO-AHEAD GOAL ONE MINUTE AFTER ENDO TIED THE GAME!
WHAT A MATCH pic.twitter.com/JTgEp0F6Fn
However, their decision to sign Endo instead of someone with an inflated price tag has been an inspiring one so far. Endo brings all-round combative qualities to the team, using his tackling abilities and desire to win possession.
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The 30-year-old also has close control, and the ability to pass the ball and wiggle out of close spaces in congested areas. Furthermore, Endo brings leadership qualities to the senior team, being the captain of his national team.
