Wataru Endo overlooked as new problem emerges for Liverpool FC

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Wataru Endo is fighting a losing battle for game time at Liverpool, with the problem now extending to his duties as captain of the Japan national team too. His rise to the fore comes with Endo not involved in any of the last four games for Japan – including the two he missed due to a hamstring issue last month.

Japan’s only constant in Moriyasu’s two-man midfield during that run has been Sano, who was brought into starting contention in June. Liverpool’s new issue with Endo Endo, with 71, is behind only Minamino (72) when it comes to the most-capped players in the current Japan squad, but he is seemingly no longer viewed as a guaranteed starter.

If he has dropped down the pecking order under Moriyasu that could have a knock-on effect for Slot, who has relied upon Endo maintaining his rhythm during international breaks to ensure he can use him for Liverpool. The wider issue may be that, if Endo is no longer considered a starter for Japan due to a lack of game time for his club, the chances are he could push for a move in the near future.