Liverpool manager Arne Slot may have found the perfect replacement for injured centre back Ibrahima Konate.
Since replacing the iconic Jurgen Klopp at the start of this season, Slot has exceeded expectations and currently has Liverpool at the top of both the Premier League and Champions League.
A key figure in Liverpool’s success has been French defender Konate, who has already played 18 matches for the team, despite an injury sustained during the 2-0 win over Real Madrid.
With the 25-year-old still unavailable, it seems Slot has found the ideal solution for his absence.
In Liverpool’s 2-1 victory over Southampton in the Carabao Cup quarter-finals on Wednesday, midfielder Wataru Endo was given a rare starting role, but this time Slot deployed him as a central defender.
The Japanese international, who joined in the summer of 2023, has struggled to secure a regular spot under the new manager, but he impressed greatly on Wednesday night, earning the man of the match award.
After his performance against Southampton, one Liverpool fan commented on social media: “Every team needs an Endo. He doesn’t make a fuss, plays wherever asked, and leaves quietly. We’re lucky to have the captain of Japan at Liverpool.”
Another fan agreed, stating: “Endo is the only player this season who, when he comes on as a substitute or starts, is always the best. He never disappoints.”
One more fan added: “My favorite Liverpool player. Always gives 100%. Supports the team, and is highly underrated. He can pass and tackles like a beast.”
Endo joined Liverpool in August 2023 from Bundesliga club Stuttgart for a reported fee of around £16.2 million.
The 31-year-old played a key role in Klopp’s final season at Liverpool, contributing to the team’s Premier League title challenge and Carabao Cup victory.
However, under Slot, the Japanese captain has made only 11 appearances, most of them as a substitute for less than 10 minutes.
Despite this, the Dutch manager has consistently praised Endo this season.
After Wednesday’s match, the Liverpool manager remarked: “If I have to give someone a big compliment, it should be Endo. Playing in a different position and delivering such a strong performance under these circumstances shows the quality and mentality he has.”
