Liverpool faces the impending absence of key players Mohamed Salah and Wataru Endo due to their commitments in the upcoming African Cup of Nations and Asian Cup, respectively. Despite this challenge, Liverpool secured a crucial away win against Burnley on Boxing Day, with goals courtesy of Darwin Nunez and Diogo Jota. This victory serves as a significant morale booster for the team, particularly considering Salah’s forthcoming absence from several matches.
Despite a minor mistake in the Burnley game, Wataru Endo has been a standout performer for Liverpool. Jurgen Klopp acknowledged Endo’s exceptional form and expressed regret that the Japanese international’s peak coincides with the approaching Asian Cup in Qatar.
Salah, amid his impressive goal-scoring form, is set to depart for the Ivory Coast, aiming to leave Liverpool in a strong position in the Premier League title race.
The Asian Cup commences on Friday, January 12, and concludes on Saturday, February 10. Japan, led by Endo, is seeking redemption after their previous final defeat against Qatar. The tournament includes a demanding schedule, with the group stages starting on January 12 and ending in the final on February 10.
Japan’s journey begins on January 14 against Vietnam in Group D, where they vie with Indonesia, Iraq, and Vietnam for a spot in the knockout stages. The top two teams from each group advance to the Round of 16, starting on January 28 and culminating in the grand final on February 10.
In a recent interview, Klopp praised Endo’s performance, expressing admiration: “I loved his game, I have to say. It’s a bit unfortunate that he finds his stride now and heads to the Asian Cup. That’s how it goes, it’s alright. What a fantastic lad, what a player.”
Liverpool when Endo starts, compared to when he doesn’t…
Fair to say he’s quickly become a very important player for our team & will be greatly missed during the AFC Asian Cup. pic.twitter.com/x85BACXSko
— Foot Strike (@Footstrikenews) December 27, 2023
