Liverpool Midfielder Wataru Endo Reflects on Leaving Merseyside for Asian Cup
Liverpool midfielder Wataru Endo has expressed his difficulty in leaving Merseyside just as he was finding his form. The Japan captain, who was signed for £16 million from Stuttgart, had started the last six matches due to an injury to Alexis Mac Allister. This consistent run of games helped the 30-year-old settle into English football after a challenging start.
Unfortunately, Liverpool’s New Year’s Day victory over Newcastle was Endo’s last game for a month as he departed for Qatar to prepare for the Asian Cup, which begins next Friday. Unlike Mohamed Salah, who is away with Egypt at the African Nations Cup, Endo will return to find himself replaced by Mac Allister, who has been the first-choice holding midfielder all season. This break will disrupt the momentum that Endo had built up during his recent run of games.
Endo acknowledged the importance of representing his national team as captain but expressed his desire to stay at Liverpool. He stated, “Of course I want to stay here, but as a national team player, it is important for me to fulfill my duties. I am now focused on the national team and giving my best.”
The midfielder also expressed his hopes for success at the Asian Cup, despite the extended time he will spend in Qatar. He believes that Liverpool will perform well in his absence and confidently stated, “I want to come back with the Asian Cup title. I’m confident Liverpool can do well without me and Mo.”
Endo’s late arrival in August meant that it took longer for him to integrate into the team. As a result, he was mainly limited to appearances in the Europa League and Carabao Cup. However, Mac Allister’s injury and a busy December schedule forced manager Jurgen Klopp to play Endo regularly, which made a significant difference in his performances.
Reflecting on the challenging schedule, Endo said, “It has been the toughest Christmas and New Year in my life, but playing football is amazing, so I’ve enjoyed it as well. Playing the games is the most important way for me to improve.”
Endo also highlighted the importance of confidence and the faith shown in him by Klopp and his teammates. He believes that he has adapted better to playing in England and feels that he has made progress in his performances.
In other news, Liverpool has recalled 20-year-old James Balagizi from his loan spell at Wigan. Balagizi made only seven appearances during his time at Wigan, with three of them in League One.