NewsWataru Endo withdraws from Japan's World Cup squad

Endo had hoped to represent his nation as captain at this summer’s tournament, following a period of recovery from a foot injury he sustained while in action for Liverpool in February.

The 33-year-old was called up by Japan initially but has now pulled out of the tournament, it was announced on Thursday.

“Since my injury, I’ve done everything I possibly could up to this point, so I have no regrets whatsoever,” he said.

Endo retires from Japan duty having accumulated 73 caps in total, scoring four goals in the process.

“From here on, I’ll be cheering for the Japan national team as one of the fans,” added Endo.