Wataru Endo concern highlights Liverpool's summer transfer priority

Wataru Endo's performance against Real Betis has been a major talking point among Liverpool's supporters.

In the first game of the Reds' tour of the United States, the hallmarks of new head coach Arne Slot were on show with the Dutch tactician opting to start without a recognised central striker in addition to playing with two controlling midfielders.

Curtis Jones was selected to partner Endo in the engine room and whilst the former's game ended prematurely due to an injury scare, his partner didn't exactly fare much better against Real Betis in Pittsburg.

The Japan international, signed last summer for £16.2m, struggled to stamp his authority in the middle of the park, as he was caught in possession on several occasions which often resulted in the ball being turned over to Betis in dangerous situations.

Fortunately for Liverpool they weren't punished but Endo was replaced by Tyler Morton at the break and the midfield prospect - linked with an summer exit - put in a decent second-half display to perhaps give Slot some food for thought.

Ultimately the 31-year-old still has enough time to improve. After all this was only his second appearance of pre-season so it could be a case of him finding his rhythm and building towards full match sharpness following a nice break over the summer.

Endo concern highlights Liverpool's transfer need

Nevertheless, as one of two natural defensive options in the Liverpool first-team squad, his concerning display against Real Betis does highlight where the club need to strengthen before the summer transfer window slams shut.

Judging by some of the responses on social media, the general feeling is that Slot should not go into the new season with the Japan international as his first choice option with regard to protecting the defence.

Interestingly, Endo does agree with the notion that a defensive midfielder should be signed this summer to provide greater depth in this particular department.

"I don’t care about those reports, but I also think it would be better to get a No. 6 midfielder," he said last month.

"I think there is a possibility that they are viewing Mac Allister as a No. 6, but at the moment there aren’t many No. 6 players to begin with.

Endo assesses Liverpool's midfield options

"I had the most opportunities to play, and so did Mac Allister. We also had Thiago Alcantara, but he had a lot of injuries and is set to leave the club at the end of this season.

"We also have [Stefan Bajcetic], but it’s still unclear as to whether he will be able to contribute immediately.

"Considering my age [at 31], I think it might be OK for me to get the No. 6. But if it ultimately makes the team stronger then I’m all for it, because there will be competition and I just have to win my position again.

"So I’m not really worried about it, and in fact I think it might be OK if I win!"