Steven Gerrard on Japan players displaying Wataru Endō's jersey after the 2-2 draw against the Netherlands:
🗣️ “I have to say, what I saw after the final whistle was bigger than football. Watching those Japanese players hold up Endō's shirt wasn't about a result it was about respect, loyalty, and reminding the world that some teammates are present even when they can't be on the pitch.
People will remember the goals, the drama, and the late equalizer. But for me, that image of the squad standing together with Endō's jersey was the most powerful moment of the night.
Missing a World Cup through injury is one of the cruelest things that can happen to a player. You spend years dreaming about it, fighting for it, and then suddenly you're forced to watch from the sidelines.
What impressed me was how much it clearly meant to the squad. They weren't celebrating a draw. They were showing the world that one of their leaders is still part of their journey.
Moments like that can bring a team closer together. It creates a bond that goes beyond tactics, formations, or individual talent. It gives players something bigger than themselves to fight for.
And trust me, when a team starts playing for each other the way Japan are right now, they become dangerous. Very dangerous.
For me, that wasn't just a tribute. It was a message. Endō may not be on the pitch, but this Japan team is determined to carry him with them every step of the way.”