'Harder than I thought!' - Liverpool's Wataru Endo opens up on struggle to adapt to Premier League

Endo reiterated that he is very happy to be at Liverpool, despite his bit-part role in the side this season, and that he is still adjusting to the speed of the Premier League. A late transfer window signing, the Japanese international was brought in to fill a holding midfielder void left by the departing Jordan Henderson and Fabinho to the Saudi Pro League.

Speaking on his struggles, Endo said: "Yes, it's harder than I thought, but I'm very happy to be here. Physically, it's speedy, so it's very hard to adapt but it's the Premier League and I keep trying and keep playing and I'll get better. I'm already 30 years old but I feel I have a chance to grow as a football player so I'm so happy to be here and I can improve."

Endo formed part of the major midfield overhaul that Liverpool underwent in the summer which also saw Alexis Mac Allister, Dominik Szoboszlai and Ryan Gravenberch arrive in Merseyside. Departing the club included several midfielders; Henderson and Fabinho, as well as Naby Keita, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, James Milner, Fabio Carvalho and Arthur Melo.

While Mac Allister and Szoboszlai have stolen the headlines, Endo has struggled to find consistent game time and form. However, there is an expectation Endo will be given greater game time over the busy Christmas period.

Liverpool sit third in the Premier League and play Fulham on Sunday afternoon hoping to put pressure on league leaders Arsenal. If he plays, Endo will be hoping to put in a strong performance to remind Jurgen Klopp of his place in the side.