Wataru Endo admits he must do ‘much better’ for Liverpool on the back of £19m transfer & two Premier League outings in 10-man teams

The Japan international was a shock addition to Jurgen Klopp's ranks when completing a summer switch from Stuttgart. He has been thrown straight into the fold in England, with minutes seen against Bournemouth and Newcastle.

Endo was included from the start at St James’ Park, having made his debut off the bench in a home date with the Cherries, but was replaced just before the hour mark and has told LFC TV of adjusting to life in the Premier League: “It was a very tough game for me. I just tried to do my best, we didn't concede after going to 10 men. That was my job. Of course I can be better but in the second half it was very tough. Defensively I feel I can be better.”

Liverpool have been reduced to 10 men in both of Endo’s outings so far – having seen Alexis Mac Allister and Virgil van Dijk sent off – and the 30-year-old midfielder added on the challenges he faces in new surroundings: “Hopefully I don't get used to that! Hopefully next time we can play much more better and I can play much more better. I'm just trying to get ready for next week now.”

Liverpool will be back in action on Sunday when playing host to Aston Villa, with that contest set to carry the Reds into the September international break.