Wataru Endo will return to Liverpool early next week following Japan’s exit from the AFC Asian Cup.

The 30-year-old played the full match in midfield for Hajime Moriyasu’s side as they lost 2-1 to Iran in a dramatic quarter-final on Saturday afternoon.

Japan took the lead in the 28th minute through Sporting CP midfielder Hidemasa Morita.

Iran continued to press for an equaliser in the first half, squandering a few golden chances in front of goal. Their efforts paid off in the second half, as they secured their goal in the 55th minute, with Mohammad Mohebi slotting home

With the score level at 1-1 and only a few minutes of added time remaining, Hossein Kanaanizadegan was brought down in the box, prompting the referee to point to the spot.

The stadium waited with bated breath for the 96th-minute penalty, and Iranian captain Alireza Jahanbaksh ultimately broke the deadlock, leaving Japanese hearts shattered.

Iran are set to face the winner of the Qatar and Uzbekistan quarter-final for a chance to secure a spot in next Saturday’s final.

Wataru Endo featured in all of Japan’s games at the tournament, putting up an impressive display in midfield.

The Japan skipper is expected to rejoin his Liverpool teammates at the AXA Training Centre next week and could be in contention for the visit of Burnley in the Premier League on February 10.

He has made 25 appearances, scored three goals, and provided one assist across all competitions for Liverpool this season.

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