Wataru Endo already has a good grasp of the English language as he prepares to join Liverpool.
Endo’s move from Stuttgart to the Reds looks set to be finalised today, with hope that he can make the squad for tomorrow’s clash with Bournemouth.
It’s a surprise transfer for Liverpool, with fans likely not especially aware of what the Japan captain can do. As a result, The Athletic have attempted to give Reds supporters as much detail as possible about their new recruit before he signs.
As well as detailing his playing style – ‘best described as a defensive no.8’ – there’s an impressive list of nicknames previously given to the 30-year-old. Endo has reportedly been dubbed ‘soldier,’ ‘warrior,’ ‘heart-beat’ and ‘bodyguard’ during his career.
He is also – crucially – said to speak ‘good English’ already. Described as ‘shy,’ ‘humble,’ and a ‘quiet leader,’ he isn’t claimed to be the loudest, but his words reportedly carry great weight. Fantastic stuff.
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Endo ready to hit the ground running
This might sound like a small point to mention, but it really is important.
Having witnessed the struggles of players like Luis Diaz and Darwin Nunez to fully grasp English, it would be a surprise if Jurgen Klopp didn’t absolutely insist on this, actually.
Nunez in particular appears to be much worse off at Liverpool for not speaking the language.
Having difficulties settling into the Reds’ system, his job would have been so much easier if he could fully understand his manager’s demands.
As Endo seems to be being brought in for his leadership qualities, that he can converse with teammates and coaches is even more important.
Thankfully, it sounds as though the Japanese will have no trouble in that respect. He should be able to slot in without too much trouble.
It’s also worth pointing out that his countryman Takumi Minamino suffered from a lack of English in his early days at the club. A shy figure anyway, Taki didn’t appear able to bed in right from the start. In that respect, Endo should already have a head start.