Wataru Endo has already got bit of a cult hero status at Liverpool. The Japanese international had his doubters when he first arrived on Merseyside. But he silenced those doubters very quickly after coming into the side and earning regular minutes.
Endo has since become one of Liverpool’s linchpins and a vital foundation in the middle of the park. He wins duels on a regular basis, and reads the game really well. But he is also underrated on the ball and always looks comfortable in possession. One of his best traits is the ability to draw fouls. Endo very rarely loses the ball. He is very effective at using his body to shield himself from physically more imposing opponents.
On Sunday night, he also won his first major trophy in European football, having only previously won trophies back in his homeland in Japan. And he has now been speaking about his delight at winning the Carabao Cup.
Wataru Endo on Jurgen Klopp
Speaking in video diaries with Japanese publication Synchronous, Endo revealed his delight at winning his first major trophy with Liverpool. He also revealed that he was amazed by what Klopp did during the final with the decisions he made on who to bring on and to manage the game accordingly.
“That was amazing,” Endo said. “I think they made substitutions while looking at the overall situation, such as who was tired, so I felt that the substitutions were based on a rationale.”
It’s true not a lot of credit is being given to Klopp in his game management. The Liverpool boss brought players on at the right time and introduced his youngsters at a perfect moment. All of his substitutes were able to make an impact and ultimately it was that decision making which won Liverpool the trophy.
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