‘He has never hidden’ – John Barnes reveals what he likes about Liverpool midfielder

Liverpool legend John Barnes has revealed what he likes most about Emre Can.

Barnes praised Can’s work-rate but stated that what he admires most about the midfielder is that he did not shy away when things were not going well for him.

“Can has had a bit of a hard time with the fans at times, but what I like about the Liverpool fans is that if the manager backs you, they back you, regardless of how they may feel,” Barnes was quoted as saying on the official Liverpool website.

See More: Guide to pronouncing Emre Can

“What I always say to fans is to forget about what you think about how well a player is doing; if he is doing what the manager wants – regardless of what you want him to do – you have to appreciate that.

“And Can is a real team player. You ask him to play anywhere and he works hard. Sometimes he plays at the back, sometimes he plays in midfield.

“One of the three midfield players is a very hard role for Liverpool because it involves a lot of work. He has adapted well to anything you’ve asked him to do.

“He has never hidden and he has always wanted to get on the ball. He has showed a lot of determination and a lot of heart. The easiest thing to do if things aren’t going particularly well is to hide and not want the ball and shy away, but he’s never done that.”

Can came under fire from sections of the media and fanbase earlier in the season after a dip in form.

The 23-year-old has managed to re-establish himself as a key player in the Liverpool team and played a major role in the Reds reaching their current league position – third-placed.

The Germany international of Turkish origin has started in the Reds last 12 league games, only two of which have ended in defeat.

Can will have just 12 months remaining on his contract at the end of the season but has yet to commit to a new deal.

The central midfielder will hold talks with Liverpool at the end of the season over his future.

Can is almost certain to start for the Reds in the final game of the league campaign against Middlesbrough on Sunday.