Liverpool head coach Arne Slot has spoken of his love for Wataru Endo, following the 2-0 win at home to Newcastle United.
The Reds cruised to victory over the Magpies on Wednesday, on a night that saw them go 13 points ahead of Arsenal at the top of the Premier League table.
There were standout performers, from Dominik Szoboszlai to Mohamed Salah, and Endo enjoyed a late cameo, as has often been the case this season.
Speaking to reporters after the game, Slot showed his appreciation for the 32-year-old, explaining what it is that he admires about him.
“I appreciate him a lot as a football player but also as a human being because no matter how many minutes the team needs him [for], he always shows up,” Slot said.
“The reason why he always shows up – and that is what makes him special, and I’ve said it a few times before – is players, and I have worked with many that were in a similar situation like him, don’t always find the energy to train well the day after a game when they didn’t have playing time or two days after a game, but it doesn’t matter which day of the week it is or if he has played, he always gives his best in every training session and, as a result of that, every time the team needs him he shows up.
“That’s a big compliment for him, that he brings performances in like he did today.”
A brilliant squad player for Liverpool
Endo is never going to be one of the first names on Slot’s team sheet, especially given his advancing years, but he is an invaluable player to have around.
The Japan international has a great team ethic, not to mention an ability to make things solid in the midfield late on in matches, and he also has a knack for winning free-kicks to take pressure off Liverpool.
Assuming Endo is happy at Anfield, the Reds shouldn’t be looking to move him on any time soon, with his current deal not expiring until the summer of 2027.
He has completed 93.8% of his passes across 13 Premier League substitute appearances this season, as well as averaging two tackles per game in the EFL Cup, highlighting his quality both on and off the ball.
