Emre Can could be a potential replacement for Steven Gerrard says Hargreaves [divider]

BT Sport football pundit Owen Hargreaves believes Liverpool midfielder Emre Can could become a potential replacement for Steven Gerrard.

“Can is going to be one who plays central midfield and he does a good job but they need a more athletic defensive presence,” Hargreaves said when asked about players who could fill in for Gerrard.

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The Liverpool captain will retire at the end of the season after 17 years at the club.

Can joined Liverpool on a £9.75 million move from Bayer Leverkusen in the summer as a central midfielder but has been playing as a defender for much of the season.

The 21-year-old has started the Reds last nine games in defence. Liverpool have not lost a game in which the Can has started in the back-three this season.

Can has one goal and one assist in 28 appearances in all competitions this season for Liverpool.

The young midfielder is expected to start against Blackburn Rovers in the FA Cup quarter-finals on Sunday.

The Reds are currently fifth in the Premier League just two points off a top four spot.