Liverpool star Wataru Endo is winning over fans with his honesty, highlighting the team’s need for a new number-six

Liverpool defensive midfielder Wataru Endo asked the club to sign a new number-six while making the pragmatic and humble assessment. The Japan captain has made himself a cult hero among Liverpool fans for his down-to-earth and practical nature.

Liverpool surprisingly signed Endo under former manager Jurgen Klopp last summer from VfB Stuttgart to bolster their squad. The Reds failed to sign Moises Caicedo and Romeo Lavia as Chelsea poached both players with bigger wages and prices.

The Japan captain’s signing goes against Liverpool’s usual mode of operation in the transfer market as they prefer younger talents. However, Endo proved he is capable of playing for the Reds despite the obscure reputation, proving Liverpool’s brilliant scouting prowess.

The Japan captain required time to adapt to the new league but provided several fantastic performances which helped Liverpool immensely. Meanwhile, Caicedo and Lavia failed to live up to their astronomical price tags at Chelsea, making Liverpool count their blessings.

Speaking to Abema Sports Time in Japan (via MSN), Endo highlighted the lack of competition in the number-six position. He said:

“I don’t care about those reports, but I also think it would be better to get the number-six midfielder. I think there is a possibility that they are viewing a number-10 player Mac Allister as a number-six/anchor, but at the moment there aren’t many number-six players to begin with. I had the most opportunities to play, and so did Mac Allister. We also had Thiago Alcantara, but he had a lot of injuries and is set to leave the club at the end of this season. We also have a young Spanish player (Bajcetic), but it’s still unclear as to whether he will be able to contribute immediately.”

Endo also showed his pragmatic and humble nature, highlighting his age and the fact that Liverpool needs upgrades to compete. He added:

“Considering my age, I think it might be okay for me to get the number-six. But if it ultimately makes the team stronger then I’m all for it, because there will be competition and I just have to win my position again. So I’m not really worried about it, and in fact I think it might be okay if I win.”

Endo replaced Fabinho who played a key role for the Reds in winning multiple major trophies under Klopp. The club still deeply feels the absence of the Brazilian, whose impact remains significant despite his regression in form before departing.

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Stefan Bajcetic is a brilliant prospect but his issues with injuries had a significant correlation with exposure to the senior football. Liverpool’s coaching staff must carefully manage the Spaniard’s game time next season, actively monitoring his minutes to prevent overload. Endo’s points are very valid as Liverpool ushers into a new era under head coach Arne Slot who has a different tactical style.