Explained: Why Liverpool star Wataru Endo wears a gumshield during games

The £12 million summer arrival from Stuttgart has attracted the attention of fans after noticing he was wearing a gum shield during matches - which is usually worn in sports such as rugby or hockey. Now the 30-year-old has revealed why he does this.

The Japanese international says when he was back in Germany, a dentist recommended he wear a mouthguard to protect his teeth during matches, but he also thinks it helps him as a player and he looks like a "fighter".

He told Sky Sports: "When I was in Germany I met a Japanese dentist. He told me to put [a] mouthpiece [in as it] makes some difference in the performance. Now I just put [it on] to protect my teeth. Also it looks like a fighter. So when I go into the pitch I just put [a] mouthpiece on and it's like game on."

The midfielder may be seen sporting this item when Liverpool host Arsenal at Anfield in a huge Premier League clash later today.