Georgino Wijnaldum is relishing the responsibility of his new role in Liverpool’s midfield.
Wijnaldum was the Reds’ leading outfield performer when he operated in a deep-lying position for Saturday’s Merseyside derby stalemate with Everton.
He enjoyed the most touches of any player on the pitch at Goodison Park as well as a 98 per cent pass completion rate and winning 75% of duels.
Jurgen Klopp previously trialled the Holland international in a more defensive role on occasion during Liverpool’s pre-season campaign.
“I’ve played there a few times before,” said Wijnaldum.
“You are more responsible [in that role] because you’re the second or sometimes the first man in the build-up.
“You’re quite an important player in that position I think.
“The manager said already that it could happen that I will play in that position. He might look at it [again] in the future but now the time’s come.
“He was trying it in the pre-season and said that it might happen in the season.”
Wijnaldum could reprise the role for Tuesday’s Champions League quarter final return leg with Manchester City as Liverpool hold a three-goal advantage.
But the 27-year-old insists that the Anfield outfit will not rest on their laurels.
He added: “We’re not going to sit back. We’re going play our game – that’s what we always do.
“Of course we know that we are not through to the next round [yet].
“We know know strong they are when they play at home but they have to think about us, where we’re strong. It’s going to be a nice game I think.”