Brendan Rodgers has praised the "in-built brain for football" of Emre Can, and has hinted at a promising central midfield future for the German.
One of a flurry of new signings last summer, Can joined Liverpool in a £10million deal amid much fanfare from the Bundesliga.
A former Bayern Munich youth, Can was used sparingly at the start of the season, before he was thrust into an unfamiliar role as a centre-half in a three-man defence.
Can adapted to the position excellently, but also had his struggles as manager Rodgers opted to use him elsewhere, including an ill-fated spell at right-back.
However, this season has heralded something of a new dawn for the German youth international, with the 21-year-old being handed playing time in his preferred central midfield role.
Rodgers has praised the versatility and "in-built brain for football" of his young star, but has hinted that such a role in midfield will be Can's natural position in the future.
"He can play and operate in any one of the three positions [in a midfield three]," the Northern Irishman told Liverpool's official website.
"When I met Emre, and having seen him play in a whole raft of positions, his great attribute is that he's a footballer and understands the game
"Whatever role he's asked to play, he has this in-built brain for football that allows him to adjust and adapt.
"When I met him, I asked his preferred position, where he sees himself playing - and that was as a controlling midfield player. That's where I've always felt he'll be an outstanding talent for us.
"He can play in a back three, against Newcastle he played as one of the two centre-halves when we played a back four and was comfortable.
"But I think his passing range, strength and power is best in midfield.
"Once again he's finding his fitness and working his way to fitness, then that's where you'll see him best."
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