Liverpool’s Pre-Season Boost: Wataru Endo’s Availability
Wataru Endo’s Unexpected Availability
Liverpool fans and management have been handed a pleasant surprise as Wataru Endo will be fully available for the pre-season preparations. Anfield Index podcast regular David Lynch, writing on Substack; has confirmed that the 31-year-old midfielder, who had been eyeing a spot in Japan’s squad for the upcoming Olympic Games, has been omitted by coach Go Oiwa. This decision ensures Endo’s presence throughout Liverpool’s pre-season schedule.
Implications for Liverpool’s Pre-Season
Endo’s availability is a significant advantage for Liverpool, as they gear up for the new campaign under Arne Slot. The football competition at the Paris Olympics runs from July 24 to August 10, which would have meant Endo missing most of Liverpool’s crucial pre-season activities, including their tour of the United States. Now, Slot can integrate Endo into his tactical sessions, strengthening team cohesion ahead of the season.
Japan’s Surprising Decision
The Japan Football Association’s choice to exclude all overage players from the Olympic squad, including Endo, came as a surprise. For Endo, this is a disappointment, as he had hoped to participate in his third Olympics, having competed in both Rio and Tokyo. Despite this personal setback, it presents a silver lining for Liverpool, who benefit from his uninterrupted presence.
Wataru Endo will be available for Liverpool’s full pre-season schedule after being omitted from the Japan squad for this summer’s Olympics.
— David Lynch (@davidlynchlfc) July 3, 2024
Potential Impact on Mohamed Salah
Today’s news might also affect Mohamed Salah’s situation. There had been speculation about Salah being called up as an overage player for Egypt in the Olympics. With Liverpool now relieved of the concern of releasing Endo, it seems unlikely that the club will entertain any requests from the Egyptian FA for Salah’s participation. This ensures that Salah, like Endo, will be available for the entirety of Liverpool’s pre-season.
Liverpool’s prospects for the upcoming season look brighter with the full involvement of key players like Wataru Endo. His presence is set to bolster the team’s preparations and enhance their readiness for the challenges ahead.
