Former Premier League manager Harry Redknapp called Liverpool defensive midfielder Wataru Endo the “signing of the season”

Harry Redknapp praised the Liverpool scout for finding Wataru Endo while calling him “the signing of the season”. Endo has played a pivotal role in the Reds’ successful campaign so far and dominated Manchester City’s midfield on Sunday.

The Citizens restricted Liverpool to a 1-1 draw at Anfield in the Premier League clash that had a controversial late decision. Referee Michael Oliver stole the spotlight when he refused to give a penalty to Liverpool after a blatant high-boot foul.

Liverpool have slipped into the second place after dropping two points with Arsenal at the top by goal difference. They have already secured the Carabao Cup trophy and continued their challenge for the FA Cup and the Europa League.

Speaking to BetVictor (h/t Liverpool World), Redknapp credited Liverpool scouts for spotting Endo, calling him “the signing of the season”. He said:

“Endo might just be the signing of the season. I thought he was brilliant against Manchester City, this boy just never stops running! He looks like he’s been in this side for years. Every credit to the Liverpool scouts for finding this lad and taking a chance on him and every credit to him for making the most of it. It just shows that there’s still some bargains out there, you’ve just got to have an eye for a player.”

Liverpool signed Endo from German side Stuttgart for a deal worth £16.2m during the summer transfer window. The Japan captain joined the Reds after Chelsea beat them to the signing of Romeo Lavia and Moises Caicedo.

The London rivals flexed their habit of overspending by paying over the odds for mutual transfer targets to beat Liverpool. At the time, the Reds lacked a specialist defensive midfielder while the pressure from fans, media and pundits grew.

Liverpool have actively trusted their shrewd process in the transfer market instead of panic buying or paying over the odds. Endo’s signing is a great example of vigorously scouting the player instead of just depending on the reputation.

Another day, another @wataru0209 masterclass pic.twitter.com/PvGOAkE1L6

— Liverpool FC (@LFC) March 11, 2024

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp played Mac Allister in the number six role at the start of the season. The decision allowed enough time for Endo to adapt to the pace and physical demands of the new league.

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The 31-year-old signed for the Reds despite his age and obscure reputation and he has been sensational for the team. Endo has recently formed a formidable partnership with Alexis Mac Allister and at times played as a single pivot. The Japanese captain is currently one of the fan favourites, making a steep rise in his reputation at Anfield