Wataru Endo, Liverpool’s summer acquisition from VfB Stuttgart, has identified Mohamed Salah as the toughest opponent during training sessions at Kirkby.
Despite the surprise £16m transfer, Endo has faced challenges adapting to the Premier League, stepping into the leadership void left by Fabinho and Jordan Henderson.
Nevertheless, he has gained respect within the squad and is regarded as a well-respected player alongside other summer signings.
Speaking to the Times, Endo acknowledged Salah’s prowess, highlighting the Egyptian winger’s strength and ball control that make him formidable to face in training.
“He’s not tall but he is very strong and knows how to keep the ball. It is very difficult to get it from him. But everybody is very high quality.”
Said Endo
Despite his mixed spell, Endo is considered a promising addition to Liverpool.
Salah, a £34m signing from AS Roma in 2017, has elevated his game, introducing more creative flair to Liverpool’s play this season.
Wataru sees marking Salah in training as a crucial learning curve, enhancing his preparation for the challenges of the Premier League.
While Endo is still adjusting to English football, recent performances indicate his progress in grasping Liverpool’s style.
The experience of defending against top-tier players like Salah is viewed as valuable for Endo’s long-term development, suggesting that the former Stuttgart star has the potential to thrive in the Premier League with the Reds.
Liverpool is my Religion and Anfield is my Church. 17th May 1996 the date I had my blood coloured red. The one you love the most you can not live without it and that is football to me.