Wijnaldum happy to play in deeper role for Liverpool

Georginio Wijnaldum started both Liverpool’s Premier League matches this season in a withdrawn midfield role, tasked with protecting a back line featuring Virgil van Dijk but missing the experienced Dejan Lovren due to injury. “It’s more difficult than it looks because sometimes on the pitch I also want to run forward and to help the attack as well and even score a goal,” Wijnaldum told the club’s website. “But when you’re playing in that position it’s not always possible so you have to keep the balance... but I enjoy playing in that position, it’s going quite well.” The 27-year-old is welcoming the increased competition for a place in Jurgen Klopp’s side. “Yes, I think (the competition is there) especially at the start of the season because everyone wants to play, everyone is fit and fresh so everyone is fighting for their place and I think that’s a good thing,” Wijnaldum added. “It’s always good if the manager trusts you and it’s always good if he tries to help you to become a better player, or in this case to make the next step. I’m always happy with that.”

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