Wataru Endo has claimed that he is unconcerned by the scrutiny he has received since his surprising move to Liverpool this summer.
And the Japan international believes he is beginning to disprove his critics after another strong performance in Thursday’s 5-1 triumph against Toulouse.
The 30-year-old was a surprise signing for the Reds when Chelsea blocked their attempts to sign Moises Caicedo as a replacement for Fabinho and Jordan Henderson.
However, he is settling in to Jurgen Klopp’s club, as proven by recent performances in the League Cup and Europa League.
Endo responded to criticism by saying, “I understand they say that stuff because I’m 30 years old, and I know Liverpool wanted to sign younger players.”
“But that’s to be expected. I didn’t care what people said; all I had to do was my job. And it’s a good indicator if I play well.
“Not only today [Thursday], my performances are getting better and better and I can see it improving more so I just try to do my job every game.”
Endo says it took him some time to adjust to the increased physicality of the Premier League after leaving the Bundesliga.
“Training is completely different between Liverpool and Stuttgart,” he continued. I was astonished to train here because they have a lot of talent and it’s really intense when I first arrived. But that’s exactly what I wanted.
“It was a very tough game at Newcastle, and physically, the speed, everything is different between Europe and the league.”
“We always try to play forward to the goal in the Premier League.” That is the most important thing. Every squad has outstanding athletes.”
The employment of Alexis Mac Allister in his favored holding midfield role was the main impediment to Endo becoming a regular starter in his early days at Liverpool.
However, the former Stuttgart man believes he can learn a lot from his Argentine partner and was full of admiration for the Reds’ other engine room possibilities.
“Macca is more offensive, but he always tries to do it better defensively,” he continued. He grows stronger defensively as he plays more.
“I can learn a lot from him, and I believe there is a good balance between me and Macca.”
“I believe we have very good midfielders, not just the four new players, but also Curtis, Harvey, and so many No. 8 players.”
“Macca and I are both sixes, Thiago is injured but will return, and Stefan is a No. 6.” We have some excellent midfielders.”
