Emre Can has been deployed in just about every position in defence and midfield over the past season but his strongest role is in the centre of the pitch according to head coach Jurgen Klopp.

The German manager stated that Brendan Rodgers also thought Can’s strongest position was in midfield but underlined that the 21-year-old does have what it takes to also play in defence.

Klopp told the official Liverpool website “From what I’ve heard and read, Brendan [Rodgers] thought his best position was midfield. That’s clear, he is a midfield player.

“But with his size and speed and strength in one-on-one situations, of course he can play as a centre-half if you don’t have another one in good shape.”

Can played as a centre-back as part of former Reds boss Brendan Rodgers side and as a full-back last season.

The young midfielder-come-defender was praised for his performances in Rodgers back-three last season.

The 21-year-old also plays as a full-back in the Germany national team but has always maintained that he is most comfortable playing in midfield.

The Germany international of Turkish origin has played as a central midfielder since Klopp replaced Rodgers in October.

Can is expected to start for Liverpool against Newcastle United in the Premier League tomorrow.