Liverpool’s Wataru Endo Shines in Draw with Arsenal
Liverpool fans were given further evidence of Wataru Endo’s worth to the side with a strong display – on a booking – in Saturday’s 1-1 draw with Arsenal.
Proving His Influence
Endo, the least-anticipated arrival of the summer at Anfield, has proven just as influential as Dominik Szoboszlai and Alexis Mac Allister.
Saturday saw him make his 15th start for Liverpool and his sixth in a row, making him the longest consecutive streak in Jurgen Klopp’s current starting lineup.
Impressive Performance
Endo excelled in the match, recording the third-most touches (60), completing the second-most passes (42), and winning all three of his tackles.
He played the entire second half on a booking, showing discipline and helping hold things together at the base of Klopp’s midfield.
Praise from Liverpool Supporters
Liverpool supporters took to social media to praise Endo’s performance during and after the match. Fans hailed his solid performance and compared him to other top defensive midfielders.
Looking Ahead
Endo’s worth to the side has been evident during Mac Allister’s absence, but Liverpool is already planning for a spell without him. He is set to depart for the Asian Cup after the match against Newcastle on New Year’s Day, potentially missing up to eight fixtures. If he receives a yellow card against Burnley on Boxing Day, he will also be suspended for the January 1 clash.
Despite being a low-profile signing, Endo has become indispensable to Liverpool by Christmas.