Unleashing Wataru Endo: Why Liverpool Should Secure the Versatile Midfielder ASAP

The near £16m signing of Wataru Endo may raise concerns among Liverpool supporters regarding the circumstances surrounding it. Jurgen Klopp's unsuccessful attempts to secure Moises Caicedo and Romeo Lavia have left the midfield options limited, leading to the inclusion of the 30-year-old Endo, which could be viewed as a move out of desperation.

Unlike the aforementioned names, Endo is not a young, exciting talent. However, considering the departures of Fabinho, Jordan Henderson, and James Milner, this acquisition could prove to be one of Liverpool's smarter business decisions.

'He is a really great player'

A reliable performer, he is determined to seize this opportunity. An expert in the holding role, he can make valuable contributions to both the defensive and offensive phases of the game. There are no doubts about his character - just ask those who know him.

It was the final question for Bundesliga legend Mario Gomez as he sat down with a group of international journalists at the Allianz Arena on Saturday evening. Japanese reporter Daisuke Ishii asked about Endo, the former striker's old team-mate at Stuttgart.

Gomez had covered a wide range of topics, from Germany's issues to his own Spanish heritage, but his face suddenly lit up when Endo was mentioned. "To be honest, I have a deep affection for Wataru," he admitted. It was Gomez who had advocated for Endo's inclusion when they were both left out of the team.

"Wataru sat beside me in the locker room and faced a lot of challenges because the coach initially didn't give him much playing time." By 2020, Gomez was in the final phase of his career and had come to terms with his own circumstances, serving as a mentor to his teammates. "I found contentment in this role."

Endo, at the height of his career, experienced heightened frustration. "I consistently advised him to maintain composure and continue doing what he was already excelling at in training." His performance during training sessions was so exceptional that it became customary for Gomez to be paired up with Endo.

"After each match, we would engage in a four versus four game," Gomez clarifies. "Whenever I entered the dressing room, I made it a point to request being on the same team as Wataru because that guaranteed a victory. This was the beginning of it all. I constantly motivated him."

In a specific scenario, the coach decided to utilize his skills. It was not due to any influence from me, but rather based on the player's exceptional performance. His abilities speak for themselves, as he truly is an outstanding player. As a testament to his talent, he has now earned the role of captain for his team.

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Mario Gomez pictured training with Wataru Endo for Stuttgart in 2020

Gomez sees Endo as a prime example of how a team sport should be conducted due to his remarkable attitude. He constantly dedicates himself to the group and always puts forth maximum effort. Gomez also greatly admires how Endo remains composed while handling his young children, while Gomez himself struggles with his three kids. However, it is not only Endo's outstanding character that impresses Gomez, but also his remarkable versatility. He is capable of seamlessly transitioning from midfield to defense for Liverpool. Furthermore, Endo possesses the necessary skill and ability to excel in his endeavors.

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Endo's impressive statistics

Wataru Endo's performance at the 2022 World Cup in terms of heatmap and passing sonar will surely capture Klopp's attention. With his combative approach on the field, Endo ranked sixth in the Bundesliga last season for duels won. His remarkable consistency can be seen in his record of making 200 tackles over the past three seasons, a feat achieved by only three players. Additionally, Endo stands out as one of the two players who have successfully won the ball back 400 times in the midfield.

Liverpool's need for a defensive-minded midfielder is evident, especially after missing out on both Caicedo and Lavia to Chelsea. Deploying Alexis Mac Allister in a deeper role during the opening weekend highlighted this requirement. In this regard, Endo has consistently demonstrated his ability to excel in such a position throughout his lengthy career.

What makes him an intriguing prospect, and possibly what convinced Klopp to pursue him, is his ability to excel in possession, a skill that is essential in the Premier League as well. Similar to the aforementioned targets, Endo has the potential to be much more than just a defensive force.

Endo's passing statistics are impressive, showcasing both solidity and creativity. In fact, only four players - Jamal Musiala, Dominik Szoboszlai, Moussa Diaby, and Raphael Guerreiro - created more chances from open play than Endo in the Bundesliga last season.

Furthermore, his ability to press forward and distribute the ball is a vital asset even for more defensive-minded players in a Klopp-led team. Last season, Endo successfully regained possession 22 times in the final third and netted two goals from Stuttgart counter-attacks. Notably, he also scored three goals from long-range shots.

His high rankings on numerous metrics can be attributed largely to his consistent presence in his club's lineup since Gomez presented his case in 2020. Over the past three seasons, no other player in the Bundesliga has started as many games as Endo.

This kind of durability is exactly what Klopp needs, especially after the disappointing experience with Arthur Melo - a Brazilian player loaned from Juventus last season, who was prone to injuries and did not play a single minute in the Premier League.

Endo is undoubtedly a safer choice, and even if he happens to be warming the bench as a substitute, the point will be crystal clear to his new Liverpool teammates - ensure he is the first choice for the small-sided training game that follows. It won't be long before he's back on the field, leaving the bench behind.