Can eyes leading role at Anfield after solid campaign

LONDON: Liverpool midfielder Emre Can is ready to become one of the squad's leaders after the German international enjoyed a breakthrough season at Anfield under manager Juergen Klopp.

The 22-year-old won the young player of the season award after showing rapid improvement following the arrival of Klopp in October, going on to earn a spot in Germany's European Championship squad in France.

Having started in the 2-0 Euro 2016 semi-final defeat to the hosts last month, Can believes he has all the attributes to become a key member of the Liverpool squad.

Can has revealed that his strong relationship with compatriot Klopp had been a key factor in his improvement after an unconvincing start to his career on Merseyside.

"For me, it's very important to have the trust of the manager, and I have his trust," Can added. "That's why I can always show my best."

Despite his confident expectations for the season ahead, Can downplayed comparisons with Liverpool's former talismanic captain Steven Gerrard.

"That's of course a big, big honour," Can told reporters on Wednesday. "But I say I have lot of respect for him and I am far off that level he played for Liverpool."

Â