Will Wataru Endo Stay on the Bench Again Against West Ham? The Selection Debate and Slot’s Real Thoughts
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Benched Again vs West Ham? Wataru Endo, Liverpool Selection Debate and Arne Slot's Honest View
Wataru Endo has become a central talking point among Liverpool supporters as calls mount for his inclusion in the starting eleven. Despite being recognized as a traditional defensive midfielder, Endo has seen very limited Premier League minutes this season. Manager Arne Slot has publicly explained why Endo is unlikely to start against West Ham, describing both tactical reasoning and squad-management considerations.
Endo's Role at Liverpool and Current Squad Standing
Endo joined Liverpool in the summer of 2023 and initially earned meaningful minutes, showcasing his defensive discipline and leadership in midfield. Under Slot's management, however, Endo's role has shifted and his league minutes have been restricted to a handful of substitute appearances. The coaching staff values versatility, and Endo has made clear his willingness to play different positions when called upon, but competition—particularly from Ryan Gravenberch in similar midfield roles—has limited his starting opportunities.
Why Slot Prefers the Current Starter: The Manager's Explanation
In recent press comments, Arne Slot emphasized that selection is influenced by form, fitness, and team stability. Slot argues that Gravenberch (or the alternative often chosen) has delivered consistent performances and remained available throughout the season, which makes it difficult to alter a settled midfield. Slot also mentioned that previous experiments—such as deploying Endo at right-back—drew criticism, making managers cautious about repeating perceived risks.
Fans' Expectations Versus Tactical Reality
Supporters have highlighted Endo's defensive qualities and suggested that his inclusion could shore up midfield weaknesses after a run of goals conceded. That viewpoint is understandable: Endo brings positional discipline, tackling efficiency, and experience. Yet football selection balances individual traits against collective rhythm. Slot appears to prefer continuity, believing that frequent rotation can produce instability. The debate therefore reflects a classic managerial dilemma: introduce a specialized defensive profile or preserve tactical continuity.
When Endo Is Most Likely to Feature
Endo typically features as a substitute or in cup competitions, and there are clear scenarios where his profile becomes invaluable. Matches where Liverpool need to protect a lead, fixtures that demand extra defensive resilience, or times when the regular starter is injured or fatigued are moments Endo is likely to be used. Slot has stated that squad players must be prepared and that opportunities can arise through form swings, injuries, or tactical adjustments.
Outlook: What to Watch Next
Key indicators to monitor include the fitness and form of the preferred starter, Slot's tactical tweaks in response to recent defensive issues, and Endo's responsiveness in training. A sustained poor run by the current midfield pairing or an injury could open the door for Endo to reclaim more minutes. Until then, his role as a reliable, impact substitute remains essential for the squad.
Conclusion
While calls for Endo's starting inclusion are loud among many fans, the manager's desire for consistency and the strong performances of his competition explain why Endo may again start on the bench against West Ham. Football selection is rarely a simple reflection of ability alone; it intertwines trust, timing, tactical needs, and the manager's longer-term plan. For now, Endo remains an important squad asset whose significance increases in specific match contexts.
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