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Emre Can is happy being Mr Versatile at Liverpool.
The German midfielder joined from Bayer Leverkusen for £9.75million in July and after a slow start to his Anfield career has come into his own over the last couple of months when he’s been part of a three-man defence.
Since coming on as a substitute during the Boxing Day win at Burnley, Brendan Rodgers’s side have conceded just five Premier League goals with Can performing well alongside Martin Skrtel and Mamadou Sakho.
But against Crystal Palace tomorrow, Can could be shifted back into midfield as Liverpool are without Steven Gerrard (hamstring) and Lucas Leiva (thigh).
“From my point of view, it doesn’t matter where I play,” said Can. “The main thing is to be on the pitch where I can help the team. If I can help the team by playing in midfield, then I will play in midfield. If I am needed at the back, I will play in defence.
“I’m fitter now and it means I can perform. Luckily, the manager is playing me and I am gaining in confidence the more I play. Now I am looking for consistency in my game and good performances.”
Player Ratings: Liverpool v Tottenham
During a press conference for the fifth-round FA Cup tie, Liverpool assistant manager Colin Pascoe described Can as a “leader”.
“I am only 21 but I am the type of player that talks on the pitch,” said Can. “That’s the way I am and I have always been like that.
“I can’t see myself changing; I think it’s just my way that pushes me into taking on a leadership role on the pitch.”
