In teams such as [Liverpool](https://liverpooloffside.sbnation.com/), filled with word class superstars like Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk, there is always a need for players who are willing to step in and do the dirty work wherever they are needed. These players often fly under the radar, but at clubs such as Liverpool, they can quickly become cult favorites.
Wataru Endo is one such player. The veteran Japan international joined Liverpool in Jürgen Klopp’s last season with the club to provide depth as a holding midfielder after the surprise departure of Fabinho. Endo quickly won over the Anfield faithful with his hard-nosed style and willingness to put his body on the line to make a tackle. His thoughtful approach to the game has further endeared him to Liverpool supporters.
Endo’s role under Arne Slot was initially diminished as Ryan Gravenberch burst onto the scene in a holding midfield role, but Endo kept grinding away and earned the trust of the manager to frequently come on and see games off as the season progressed. Endo recently revealed that he asked for a discussion with Arne Slot after the manager joined the club and stressed his willingness to play anywhere he was needed and always provide his full effort for the club.
“I met with Arne to try to get how he wants to play, to understand what his tactics are. That’s what I tried to adapt to in the training camp in pre-season because everyone needed to adapt to his football. We tried to do that last season and it worked very well because we won the Premier League.”
“When I spoke with Arne I said I don’t mind where I play. I can play as a six, at right-back or at center-back – I don’t mind and I will just always give 100 per cent to the team. I used to play center-back when I was in Japan so I don’t mind where I play for Liverpool.”
Slot made use of Endo’s positional flexibility at times, deploying him in several positions over the course of a match during League Cup and [FA Cup](http://www.sbnation.com/fa-cup) fixtures. With Liverpool currently light in the center back position, there is a chance we could see Endo spending additional time in the deeper role as depth behind Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konaté.
Endo also spoke of his appreciation for the Liverpool supporters who have provided full-throated support when he steps on the pitch as a substitute. Despite often only being on the pitch for a short period of time at the end of a match, being serenaded with a song as he flies into tackles makes him feel truly appreciated.
“When the Liverpool fans sing my name it is an amazing feeling for me. I already had my song and the fans are always singing my song in the last 15 minutes or whatever, especially when we are winning, and that is an amazing feeling. I feel like they really try to support me.”