Liverpool midfielder Wataru Endo started the Carabao Cup third round match against Leicester City. The 30-year-old midfielder, who was brought in to replace Jordan Henderson and Fabinho, was given his third starting spot after the Newcastle and LASK matches.
After a decent first half, he even shined in the second half, both offensively and defensively, assisting Dominik Szoboszlai’s bullet shot.
He was not afraid of a meat-and-potatoes battle, and his positioning improved as well. He was instrumental in helping Liverpool to a three-goal victory over their Championship rivals.
The national team captain, who put in what could be called his best performance since joining Liverpool, reflected on the game, saying that he was able to show his character, but insisted that he must continue to show the kind of game he did in the second half.
“I enjoyed it so much. I thought I was better than in the other games. I am happy that I was able to show who I am,”
“Defensively, I’m making an attempt to adapt. Like I performed within the second half tonight, I needed to play like that at Newcastle and within the Europa sport, however I perceive I wanted a while. It felt so good to play the total 90 minutes and I felt like I used to be capable of make a distinction.”
“If I keep playing like I did in the second half, then I hope I’ll play more in the Premier League. I feel ready. I have to perform like that in every game.”
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Unlike at Stuttgart, where he was involved in a relegation battle in the Bundesliga, at Liverpool he is expected to take the initiative. He also does not seem to feel pressure in an environment where winning is always required.
“The system is different, the game is faster and my position here is a little bit higher than it was,”
“The supervisor doesn’t need me to simply keep in entrance of the defenders. I’ve to go increased and attempt to get the ball on a regular basis.”
“Here we have to win every game, but I don’t feel pressure as a result of that. I am humble, but I have the mentality that I’m here because they believe in me. It’s exciting to be a part of it. This is my dream and I’m enjoying it. We have done great so far.”
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Finally, he reveals the fact that his children started a new school in England on this day and talks about the importance of having a family.
“It was a big day today as my four kids started at their new school,”
“I haven’t heard yet how they found it, but I’m looking forward to hearing all about it. I’m so happy that my family are here finally. We’ve moved into a new house and everything is good. I can’t wait to see them. Family is everything to me.”
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