Summer signing 'gives Liverpool something different' says Klopp

Cameron Smith

• 22 Dec 2023 18:21 GMT
• 3 min read

Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp has praised Japanese midfielder Wataru Endo for his impact at Anfield since his €20 million summer move from Bundesliga outfit Stuttgart.

The 30-year-old struggled for game time upon his immediate arrival at Liverpool, but has worked his way into Klopp’s preferred XI in recent weeks.

Endo has started each of Liverpool’s past five games in all competitions, with Alexis Mac Allister currently sidelined through a knee injury.

Unlike the Argentine, Endo is an out-and-out defensive midfielder and far more in the mould of Fabinho than the 2022 World Cup winner.

Now, Klopp has publicly stated his admiration for the Japan international.

Jurgen Klopp heaps praise on Liverpool’s Endo

Klopp spoke to the media ahead of Liverpool’s crucial Premier League clash against title rivals Arsenal on Saturday, and was asked about Japan international Endo.

“We don't give people time anymore. Internally, we do. When we see him every day in training, he is one of the hardest-working people I've ever met,” he said, as per Anfield Watch.

"Some of the biggest players this club had in my era needed to adapt... Andy Robertson didn't play half the year. Fabinho, we had to change system for... I'm happy for him [Endo] that the public could see it now.

“He gives something different to the team. He is the one for the tackles. He is doing that and his passing and awareness is really good.”

Endo is likely to start against Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal, due to Mac Allister’s injury, with Curtis Jones and Dominik Szoboszlai potentially set to partner him in the middle of the park.

If Liverpool are able to beat the Gunners, they will leapfrog their opponents in the Premier League table and ensure they lead the way at Christmas.

Reigning champions Manchester City are currently fourth, behind Unai Emery’s Aston Villa.