Liverpool’s Gini Wijnaldum says he has become more of an all-round midfielder since joining The Reds in 2016.
Wijnaldum was signed by Jürgen Klopp back in the summer of 2016 and has become one of Liverpool’s most regular starters in the years since.
Speaking in an interview with UEFA, Wijnaldum said:
“My development since I came to Liverpool has been good.
“I have become more of an all-round player.
“I was used to playing in a very attacking role and only in attack. Since the World Cup with [Louis] van Gaal [in 2014], I have had a more controlling role in midfield and that went well. After that, I didn’t play that role again, at PSV or Newcastle.
“When I spoke with Klopp, he saw me in a more defensive role, where I needed to be an all-rounder. It’s not always easy as I am used to attacking, but it has helped in my development. I am a more complete player now than I was when I arrived.”
Wijnaldum was one of Klopp’s first signings at Liverpool and recent reports suggest the club is looking to enter contract renewal talks with the Dutch international. Liverpool’s number 5 spoke of the influence Klopp has had on him since his arrival on Merseyside.
“The manager has had a big influence on me. He has brought the club back to where it used to be and he brought his vision to the club, and I have to say his vision fits the club.
“The players adore him, of course, because he cares about the players and he is a good coach, a coach who improves his players and he is a great person to work with.”
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