Emre Can established himself in Liverpool’s lineup as a defender, but he hopes to play further forward as his Anfield career moves in that direction.
Can told German newspaper Bild on Wednesday he prefers playing in the midfield more than on the back line, according to the Liverpool Echo. Manager Brendan Rodgers has used Can primarily as a right-sided center back since inserting him into the lineup for good on Boxing Day, and the versatile German has played only one of the Reds’ last 18 games in his preferred position.
“I wouldn’t really call myself a right-back,” Can said. “It is demanded that I have an attacking approach and also get involved in the build-up play. Indeed, the position was a surprise to me at first. I had never played it before and feel more at home in midfield. But during my youth, I also played at center-back. Maybe that’s why adjusting wasn’t that difficult.”
Can has earned widespread praise for his role in improving Liverpool’s results and performances in recent months. Some even have tipped the 21-year-old as a potential successor to Steven Gerrard as Liverpool’s captain because of his mix of skill and toughness.
Can downplayed comparisons between Gerrard and him but said it would be a “dream” to have as great a Liverpool career as the longtime captain has enjoyed.
“The coach knows that I prefer the role in midfield and that I see myself there in the future,” Can said. “But as great as the comparisons to Steven Gerrard sound, I can never be like him.
“He has been playing for Liverpool since his childhood and already is a living legend. I am Emre Can and will go my own way. To achieve a career like Gerrard has done would be a dream, but it’s far from easy.”
Emre Can’s path at Anfield already has included abandoning his comfort zone for the good of the team. The move has made Can a fan favorite in his first season with Liverpool.
Thumbnail photo via Twitter/@LFCBoston
