Slot praised Wataru Endo's attitude following his recent performances

Liverpool manager Arne Slot has highlighted Wataru Endo's professionalism and willingness to adapt to different roles within the team, especially after his recent appearances as a centre-back.

Endo Takes on a New Role:

The 31-year-old took on the role of centre-back in last week's Carabao Cup match against Tottenham Hotspur after Jarell Quansah was substituted during the first half. Endo then started in the same position in the Emirates FA Cup third-round tie against Accrington Stanley on Saturday.

Slot's Praise:

When asked what the No.3’s ability to slot into an unfamiliar position said about his professionalism, Slot said in his pre-Nottingham Forest press conference: “That’s clear.

Comparison with Harvey Elliott and the Player's Attitude:

Slot compared Endo's situation to that of Harvey Elliott, who has also had to adapt to different positions: “I asked Harvey [Elliott] to come into the room before we played that game [against Accrington] because I know Harvey wants to get his chance in the No.10 position and because of, not the injuries we had but the players we didn’t have available, I had to play him from the right. He did really well. For Wata it’s the same, but I didn’t even invite him in because I know what kind of person Wata is, and Harvey is a really good person as well. Wherever you play him, Wata says: ‘Yeah, I’ll do my best, whenever you play me.’ So if there’s five minutes left, he comes on and gives everything he has.”

Highlighting Endo's Professionalism:

Slot emphasised Endo's positive attitude, contrasting it with that of other players who don't show the same commitment: “It might be normal for a lot of fans to hear that but since I’ve been in football I’ve seen players who had to come on five minutes before the end doing different stuff and showing a different energy than Wata shows. He’s an important part of our squad. Whenever we need him, in midfield or even now as a centre-back, because I didn’t want to bring Ibou [Konate] two days after he played against [Manchester] United and after 20 minutes we’d already have to make the change.”

Endo Responded to the Demand:

Slot explained that he used Endo as a centre-back to avoid risking Ibou Konate, who had just played against Manchester United. Endo responded to the demand with a good performance, according to Slot: “He did really well, Wata, and the moment I took him out of our last line [at Tottenham], we conceded a goal!”

In summary:

Wataru Endo has recently played as a centre-back for Liverpool in both the Carabao Cup and the FA Cup.

Arne Slot praised Endo's attitude and professionalism, highlighting his willingness to play in any position.

Slot compared Endo to Harvey Elliott, highlighting both players' positive attitudes.

Slot explained that he used Endo as a centre-back to avoid risking Konate.