Liverpool midfielder Wataru Endo achieved a rare feat after starting his team’s 2-0 Premier League win at Burnley

According to OptaJoe data editor Michael Reid, Endo became the first outfielder to start five games in 13 days for the Reds since January 2006 during his visit to Turf Moor.

He is the first to do so since Steven Gerrard, Sami Hyypia, Jamie Carragher, Steven Finnan, Harry Kewell and Peter Crouch all started five back-to-back games in less than two weeks.

Endo, who joined the Merseyside outfit from VfB Stuttgart for around £16 million in the summer, produced a fine outing against Burnley. The 30-year-old completed 63 of 75 passes, created 2 chances, won 7 of 14 overall duels, and made 8 recoveries during the clash.

After his side’s recent away triumph, Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp lauded Endo in a post-match presser. He said (h/t Liverpoolfc.com):

“I loved this game, I have to say. It’s a bit of a shame how he found his feet and now he goes to the Asian Cup but that’s how it is, it’s fine. What a boy and what a player and very important [for us].”

A 55-cap Japan international, the defensive midfielder showcased his great fitness levels during his time at Stuttgart. He started 132 of his 133 appearances, scoring 15 goals and registering 12 assists as well.

So far, Endo has netted two goals in 23 overall matches for Liverpool.

The Reds, who are atop the 2023-24 league table with 42 points from 19 matches, recorded 69% possession and 19 shots against Burnley.