Wataru Endo expresses his belief that Liverpool will maintain their pursuit of the title, even in the face of crucial absences in January and Mohamed Salah’s absence.
Liverpool Manager Jurgen Klopp remains confident that his team will continue their impressive form despite the impending absence of Mohamed Salah and Wataru Endo due to international duty. Salah has already joined up with the Egyptian national team for the Africa Cup of Nations, while Endo will soon be captaining Japan at the Asian Cup in Qatar. Depending on their teams’ progress, both players could be absent until mid-February.
Liverpool currently sits at the top of the Premier League table, enjoying an unbeaten run since the start of October. Endo, who recently won Liverpool’s player of the month award for December, has played a crucial role in the team’s success. Initially struggling to adapt to the Premier League, he stepped in for the injured Alexis Mac Allister and has since impressed with his performances.
Endo expressed mixed emotions about leaving Liverpool for national duty, stating that while he wants to stay with his club, it is important for him as a national team player to fulfill his duties as captain. He is focused on the Asian Cup and hopes to achieve good results, even if it means staying longer in Qatar. However, with Mac Allister’s return, Endo is confident that Liverpool will continue to perform well in his absence.
Reflecting on the congested festive schedule, Endo described it as tough but amazing. He believes that playing games is the best way for him to improve and show his importance on the pitch. Despite the challenges, he feels that he has adapted better to playing in England and has gained the confidence of his manager and teammates.
Liverpool’s first match without Salah and Endo will be an FA Cup third-round clash against Arsenal on January 7. Their next Premier League game is scheduled against Bournemouth on January 21.