Wataru Endo has commenced his pre-season training at Liverpool’s AXA Training Centre ahead of the main squad’s return. The midfielder’s early start follows his exclusion from Japan’s World Cup squad due to fitness concerns.
Endo, who had been recovering from a serious ankle injury sustained in a match against Sunderland on February 11, returned to international duty last month. He played for Japan in a warm-up match against Iceland on May 31, featuring for 45 minutes. However, head coach Hajime Moriyasu ultimately decided to omit him from the World Cup squad, which is taking place across Canada, the United States, and Mexico.
Following this decision, Endo announced his retirement from the national team via social media. He expressed pride in the team’s growth since the Qatar World Cup and stated he would now support Japan as a fan. Endo posted an image from Liverpool’s Kirkby training base on Thursday with the caption ‘Day 1’, indicating the start of his individual pre-season programme.
Pre-season and future at Anfield
The majority of Endo’s teammates are scheduled to return on Monday, July 13. He is expected to join the squad for their pre-season tour in the United States, which begins on July 20. During the tour, Andoni Iraola’s team will play friendly matches against Sunderland, Wrexham, and Leeds United in Nashville, New York, and Chicago.
The new head coach, Andoni Iraola, is set to assess his squad, particularly as several key midfielders, including Alexis Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch, are away at the FIFA World Cup. This situation may provide Endo with an opportunity to impress the new management. Despite not always being considered a prominent name, Endo has consistently been a reliable option for Liverpool.
Endo’s contract with Liverpool extends until 2027, bringing his future at the club under consideration. At 33 years old and having recently recovered from a long-term injury, he faces a critical period to demonstrate his capability to be a regular first-team player under Iraola. The club may need to decide on his future as he approaches the final year of his deal.
Impact of World Cup omission
The midfielder’s exclusion from the World Cup squad was described as a painful personal setback. In his social media message, Endo stated that he had done everything possible since his injury and had no regrets, despite the frustration of not participating in the tournament. He expressed strong belief in the current Japan team’s ability to overcome challenges.
Endo’s retirement from the national team means he will now be cheering for Japan from the sidelines. He encouraged unity and support for the team, hoping they would achieve success in the North and Central America World Cup. Japan was eliminated from the tournament in the last-32 round when Brazil secured a 2-1 victory.
For Iraola, the pre-season will be crucial in evaluating players like Endo, who offers defensive instincts, professionalism, and tactical discipline. These qualities could be valuable as the new head coach works to establish standards within the squad. This summer will likely determine whether Endo remains a part of Liverpool’s plans or if the club opts for a different direction.
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Source: liverpoolecho.co.uk
As NewsGB's Senior Football Correspondent, Jack Ferndale reports on the Premier League, the EFL and the England national side for readers across the country. He covered north-east football for a regional daily. He holds a degree in Sports Journalism from the University of Sunderland and completed an NCTJ diploma. Jack lives in Sunderland, where he watches lower-league football home and away. “The story is in the squad, not just the starting eleven.”
