Georginio Wijnaldum is learning to curb his attacking instincts and play in a deeper position for Liverpool so he can allow his fellow midfielders more freedom on the pitch, the Dutch international has said.
Wijnaldum started both of Liverpool's Premier League matches this season in a withdrawn midfield role, tasked with protecting a back line featuring Virgil van Dijk but missing the experienced Dejan Lovren due to a pelvic injury.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.'
Wijnaldum anchored Liverpool's midfield in their season-opening 4-0 home win over West Ham and his composure in the role was more evident in the 2-0 win at Crystal Palace on Monday.
The 27-year-old is, however, welcoming the increased competition for a places in Juergen Klopp's side this season with Fabinho, Jordan Henderson, James Milner, Adam Lallana and Naby Keita all vying for starting spots in a three-man midfield.
'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.'
Liverpool will look to continue their perfect start to the season when they host Brighton and Hove Albion at Anfield on Saturday.
Nowenpsu
0
gini has really played the 6 position well but i think when fabinho will be fit, he will take over the the position, am very grateful for what he has done so far ynwa gini
Gini plays the deep role which is 4 and not 6. Gomez and Virgil plays 5 and 6 at the back.
cruijff14forever
0
Useless footballer, compare this whopper to the likes of Kante and Fred and you'll see how limited he is. He wouldn't get a game for a big club. No further comment.
u are just jelous that u team doesn't have a player like him. look at ur lazy midfielders.
watman
1
If you are a liverpool player these days, you must be willing to play any position that klopp asks you to else you are on the bench. the options are just too many in each position. especially in midfield.
ARMELLIVERPOOL
0
gini has really played the 6 position well but i think when fabinho will be fit, he will take over the the position, am very grateful for what he has done so far ynwa gini
Ruedlmnpy
0
are u sure u watch football?
Timmysmartz
1
Stunning start? What has he done that makes it stunning?
Must you be a fool before you can recognize his worth? Haven't you see what he has done in the two games?
ManUpogba
0
Stunning start? What has he done that makes it stunning?
idiotkk
0
His work rate is phenomenal and he has benefited from the summer off
damone
0
enderson is under huge pressure to get back to the starting XI
moments
0
Useless footballer, compare this whopper to the likes of Kante and Fred and you'll see how limited he is. He wouldn't get a game for a big club. No further comment.
Jirkkerr
0
Nowhere near good enough if they want to improve on their dismal showing last season.
rezruz
0
Likable team player, top mentality Liverpool very strong as a team, but midfield looks average of creativity compared to City, Barca, Real, PSG, but great for pressing and mobility
fiubmnoy
0
not good enough
Yiwikmnp
0
Dennis
Kartik-thereds
2
Gini is doing a good job but he is feeding in more balls to TAA and Robertson instead of looking for a killer pass upfront. I do understand its not possible to feed in everytime but in the last two game it is the thing which is missing in his game. I think once Fab is completely adjusted with our playing style he will be a force to reckon with in no 6 role. No 6 will be shared among Fab and Hendo for this season for sure!
zeubimstu
1
i play like that man, i really enjoy his play
Nayankalitarko
2
Hi play deeper role for Liverpool than Liverpool must strong defence ,,and Liverpool more clean sheet won by this session
muwabilrt
0
Gigi you're d engine of d team so keep it up