Endo, who joined from VfB Stuttgart in August, was the best player in all eight of Liverpool’s games during that time.

When he got the award today at the AXA Training Center, the No. 3 said, “I am so happy to be Player of the Month.” I hope this is the first of many!

“December is a big month for me too because so many of our players were hurt, and I knew I had to show why I am here.”

“It is a very tough month but the way we played and how we showed on the pitch was great, in my opinion.”

Later that month, Endo came off the bench and scored a wonderful shot in front of the Kop to tie the game at 4-3 against Fulham. It was a very important goal.

After that, he started all seven of Jürgen Klopp’s games, and his team beat Sheffield United, Crystal Palace, West Ham United, and Burnley.

When asked about his first Premier League goal against Fulham, the 30-year-old said, “It was a great moment, and the atmosphere at Anfield was amazing.” He will now play with Japan in the AFC Asian Cup. That was a very important moment for me.

“It was tough for us because we were behind 3-2 and all we needed to do was score.” I came in and played for these people. I was also shocked to score! I was so happy, though.

“I needed time to get used to it, so I thought the most important thing was to keep playing.”

“Every game in December, I just kept playing because many of our other players were hurt.” I got a little lucky, but I think I just needed to keep going.”