Liverpool may still look to bring in a deputy for the 22-year-old as Wataru Endo has admitted that it has been tough for him at Anfield this season.

Photo by Antonio Borga/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images

Having been brought to Liverpool from Stuttgart in 2023 as part of a £16m deal, Endo has proven to be a bargain signing for the Reds.

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The Japanese star stepped up last season with Jurgen Klopp heaping praise on Endo for his work rate and the attitude he showed on the pitch.

Arne Slot has continued praising Endo throughout the current season, but the Dutch coach has not offered the midfielder a lot of minutes.

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Speaking ahead of Liverpool’s Champions League clash with PSG, Endo has admitted that he has found it tough not playing a lot and has already had conversations with Slot about his minutes.

“Yes, I have conversations with the manager,” Endo revealed.

That’s what I’m thinking always and I’ll keep doing that.”

This attitude is very rare in football and Slot has even told Darwin Nunez to learn from Endo in this regard.

Given the rise of Gravenberch, Liverpool should consider keeping Endo ahead of the 2025/26 campaign as the Japanese international deserves this at the very least.

Liverpool are set for a busy summer as several areas need to be addressed and keeping Endo for another season would save the Reds from having to go out and spend money to replace the 32-year-old.

Although he is not playing often, Endo is also rarely injured and is always available for selection when Liverpool need to give Gravenberch a rest.

On the other hand, Endo may not want to stay at Liverpool due to his playing time.