Liverpool boss Klopp last week declared his desire for the Samurai Blue to exit the competition as early as possible so Endo would return to help the Anfield club’s push for the Premier League title.
But while the midfielder was flattered by the German’s light-hearted comment, Endo is determined to guide Japan to the title for the first time since 2011, when the AFC Asian Cup was last held in Qatar.

“It’s a joke from Jurgen, but I do feel very honoured that he feels that I need to be back in Liverpool, so that’s important for me,” Endo said ahead of Japan’s Group D opener against Vietnam at Al Thumama Stadium on Sunday.

“However I’m here now. I’m here as captain of the team and all I’m thinking is about winning the trophy and taking my medal back to Liverpool.”

Endo has been at the heart of a Japan side that has been in dominant form over the last six months, with Hajime Moriyasu’s team unbeaten since March last year and among the favourites to win the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023.

The 30-year-old has established himself as the heartbeat of the Samurai Blue and he is aiming to lead by example throughout the tournament while bringing light relief to those affected by the earthquake in Japan’s Noto Peninsula on New Year’s Day.

“As captain, I’m working on how we can win this tournament,” he said. “Recently we had a tragic incident on New Year’s Day, so we would like to cheer these people who are suffering with our performance.”

The Vietnamese go into game as underdogs despite the presence of former Japan coach Philippe Troussier on the bench,, but captain Do Hung Dung insists the Golden Star Warriors will not be overawed by their illustrious opponents.

“We understand that Japan are one of the strongest national teams in the world at the moment, but we’re not here to be tourists at this competition,” said the 30-year-old Hanoi FC midfielder.

“This match tomorrow is also part of our preparation for the next two matches (against Iraq and Indonesia) to qualify from this group.

“We can consider that we have to be strong and aggressive defensively for most of the match, but also be clinical when we have even the slightest opportunity.

“I believe all the players are confident. We will try our best with our capabilities to have good concentration and follow the requirements from the coach.”