Jurgen Klopp discusses tactical decision to push Emre Can higher in midfield

Jurgen Klopp discusses tactical decision to push Emre Can higher in midfield

Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp explained his decision to move Emre Can further ahead in midfield during last nights 2-2 draw.

The German tactician was forced into withdrawing Brazil international Philippe Coutinho at half time.

Klopp stated that he subsequently switched to a 3-5-2 formation with Emre Can and Lucas Leiva operating as centre midfielders.

See More: For the latest Emre Can news and everything else you ever wanted to know about the Liverpool star

“We could have scored the third goal probably and we had the chances on counter-attack but then we had to change Phil (Coutinho) because he felt sick in half-time,” Klopp was quoted as saying by the Liverpool Echo.

“He said he feels better now and that’s good. But it’s clear when he gives a sign we have to change. There is no joy when you have to take of your best player in this moment on the pitch because he played really well.

“The decision then was to organise a little differently, three at the back with Lucas and Emre in front to still give the full-backs the opportunity to use the space on the wings against a 4-4-2 system, it makes sense.”

Can was one of the stars of the show on the night but was unable to prevent Bournemouth’s late equaliser.

The draw leave Liverpool in third place in the table with 60 points after 31 games.

Liverpool are four points clear of fifth placed Arsenal. However, the Gunners do have one game in hand.

Jurgen Klopp’s side take on Stoke City in the Premier League this weekend at the Britannia Stadium.

Emre Can has four goals and two assists to his name after 33 apperances for Liverpool this season.