Emre Can keen to claim regular midfield role for Liverpool next season

Emre Can is keen to cement a place in Liverpool's midfield next season after being fielded in defence for the majority of his debut campaign in the Premier League.

The 21-year-old signed for Brendan Rodgers' side last summer and a string of injuries restricted his progress during the early stages of his Anfield career.

Once the Germany Under-21 international returned to fitness he struggled to establish himself in the centre of the park and was often deployed as one of three central defenders in Rodgers' experimental formation.

Can also spent time at right back as Rodgers failed to settle on his preferred starting line up and became seen as Liverpool's utility man during a disappointing campaign for the club, which culminated in a sixth place Premier League finish.

Despite proving his versatility, Can is adamant that he wants to play in the centre of midfield: "A midfield role is preferable; of course it is the manager who decides who plays where.

"We'll see where he choses to play me this season. It is up to the manager but my preference is midfield," he said.

"The most important thing is I feature in the games for Liverpool - that's my number one intention," Can added.

Competition for places in Liverpool's midfield is set to be fierce following the signing of James Milner, who will vie for position alongside newly named captain Jordan Henderson and Can.