Japan's captain withdraws from the national team

Japan captain Wataru Endo has made the shocking announcement that he is withdrawing from the national team and international football just three days before the side's first match at the World Cup, according to reports. The 33-year-old midfielder suffered an ankle injury during Liverpool's match against Sunderland in February, which required surgery. He only returned to the bench for the final game of the season against Brentford. The midfielder played one half against Iceland, but felt discomfort again and was substituted at the break.

"I am withdrawing from the World Cup squad, as I announced. After my injury I did everything possible up to this point, so I have no regrets. Of course there is disappointment at being unable to participate in the World Cup, but I am more proud of how we have grown together as a team since the tournament in Qatar. As captain leading this team, whose goal is now to win the World Cup — and we can say that completely naturally," Endo wrote in a statement. This is another blow for the Samurai Blue, who have also lost Takumi Minamino.