Liverpool’s midfield is set to welcome a true enforcer after a major tactical decision by Arne Slot

Liverpool’s midfield has been crying out for a true enforcer — and he could soon be back in the picture following a bold tactical decision by Arne Slot.

In recent weeks, Slot has made his most significant system change since arriving at Anfield. While there have been minor adjustments along the way, it was only in the last fortnight that Liverpool truly shifted shape. The side has moved away from a 4-2-3-1 towards a fluid 4-4-2 diamond, granting players far more freedom to roam when in possession.

That freedom was clear against Brighton, with the forwards drifting across the pitch and Florian Wirtz operating wherever he was most effective, linking play throughout the attacking third.

However, such fluidity brings its own challenges — particularly in defensive transitions — and Liverpool need the right profile to balance it. Fortunately, they already have one.

Endo back in contention

Slot’s earlier switch from a 4-3-3 to a 4-2-3-1 impacted the entire squad, but few were affected more than Wataru Endo. The change effectively removed the traditional defensive midfielder role that Endo occupied under Jürgen Klopp.

Under Klopp, Endo operated as a lone holding midfielder, protecting the back line and breaking up attacks so others could push forward. Slot initially moved away from that idea, favouring an advanced pressing midfielder rather than a deep-lying shield.

Now, the approach is evolving again. Liverpool’s current setup blends both ideas, with one deeper midfielder tasked with covering behind teammates who are given licence to push forward and drift wide.

Ryan Gravenberch has filled that role recently, but Endo could now come back into contention. Even if not as a regular starter, the veteran’s skill set fits the demands of the system. His ability to screen the defence alone is increasingly vital when multiple midfielders are pushing high.

Paradoxically, reintroducing Endo could make Liverpool more attacking overall, giving others even greater freedom knowing a specialist defender sits behind them. It’s a genuine option for Slot — and an intriguing one.

Endo has started just once in the Premier League over the past 18 months, but that may soon change as Liverpool’s tactical evolution continues.