Liverpool’s young German midfielder Emre Can has admitted that he doesn’t think he’s playing well enough in the final third, reports the Daily Mail.
The 21-year-old is a fixture in Jurgen Klopp’s side, but Can doesn’t think his contribution in attack is befitting a player of his ability.
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“I think I am getting better as a player and of course to have a manager speaking German is better for me and he has helped me,” he began.
“I could score a few more goals but I am on the right way and if I work hard I will get better. The last part of the pitch I’ve not been good enough.
“I am not calm enough and a bit nervous in front of goal but my first job is not to score goals but I can score more, it is true. But I have to defend as well, organise the middle and close the gaps.”
Can’s scored one goal in the Premier League, one in the Europa League and hasn’t registered an assist in either – although he did play a beautiful pass before one of Daniel Sturridge’s League Cup goals versus Southampton.
For us though, Can’s attacking contribution is mostly irrelevant providing he does his job correctly as an anchoring midfielder.
Usually deployed in a three with Jordan Henderson and James Milner, Can starts as the deepest – meaning his role should be more defensive than it is offensive.
Against Manchester City in yesterday’s League Cup Final, Can did well, scoring a delicious penalty and showing real fighting spirit throughout the 120 minutes.
He does receive criticism by Liverpool supporters, but it’s vitally important to realise he’s only 21-years-old and has plenty of time left to fulfil his enormous potential.