Adam Lallana says he is enjoying having “a lot more of the ball” in his new central role for Liverpool, following an excellent start to the season.
The 28-year-old has been one of the Reds’ standout players so far in 2016/17, scoring twice and producing some superb performances in big matches.
Jurgen Klopp‘s decision to use him in an attacking central midfield role is paying off handsomely, with Lallana’s creativity, end product and magnificent work-rate now key to Liverpool’s success.
Lallana has spoken of his delight at no longer being utilised in a wider position, with his all-round involvement far more noticeable.
“I see a lot more of the ball. When I was out wide, there would be periods in the game where I wouldn’t be as involved in the game as I would like,” Lallana told Premier League Productions.
“I’m sure anyone would say they want to be on the ball as much as possible. In the central area I’m getting a lot more touches on the ball and I’m being able to use one of my qualities.”
The England international also discussed the depth and quality within the current Reds squad, after what has been a very impressive first month of the campaign.
“We have got a great squad and the manager obviously feels that when big players come back late or have got a knock, you don’t just have to rely on them,” he added.
“It’s great that we’ve got players who can come in and do well and still get three points. It’s a long season and we’re going to need our squad if we’re going to do something good.
“[The future looks] very bright. The squad is very talented and it’s just about being more consistent. The manager is on to us all the time about improving.”
It feels like a long time ago that Lallana was being lambasted for his ineffective showings for Liverpool, following his £25 million move from Southampton in July 2014.
His game has gone up a significant gear since the arrival of Klopp 11 months ago, and the hope is that that continues into the future.
Playing him centrally has proved to be a masterstroke, and in tandem with the likes of Philippe Coutinho, Sadio Mane, Roberto Firmino and Daniel Sturridge, Lallana has helped make Liverpool one of the Premier League‘s most entertaining teams.
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