Japanese midfielder Wataru Endo joined Liverpool as a surprise reinforcement after rising to captain at Stuttgart.
Initially, he was not expected to make the grade, but continued to produce results in the Premier League and played well in the depths of midfield in Jurgen Klopp’s final year in charge.
However, with the arrival of Arne Slot, his playing time dropped dramatically.The Dutch coach, who favoured the type of player who could carry the ball rather than win it, made Ryan Gravenberch a valuable asset. He played well in cup games and in short spells, but his chances were few and far between.
The national captain has been linked with a move away from Anfield, but former Liverpool midfielder Dietmar Hamann said a move to Celtic would be a better option as they have the potential to dominate the ball more than English clubs, but also said he would like to see him continue playing on Merseyside.
“I think Wataru Endo is a very smart player and he is at his best in a good team where you can rely on the players ahead of you.”
“Celtic are of course more dominant than Fulham so I think they would be a better option for him.”
“Having said that, the Liverpool squad is functioning and I would be keen for him to stay at the club. He is a great reader of the game and passer of the ball.”
“I can see a lot of teams being interested and I wish him all the best whatever happens.”
BestOffShoreSportsbook
Head coach Slot fights with a relatively fixed squad. Even in their busy schedule, they are starting regular members of the team unless they are very low-ranked, which is increasing the burden on them.
Like the Japanese midfielders, Harvey Elliott, Federico Chiesa and Jarell Quansah are not exactly getting their chance. And the players who seem to be out of contention are reportedly likely to leave Anfield without exception.
So will the veteran midfielder still play for Liverpool next season, or will he seek a new home at another club…?