Klopp proud of Lallana’s switch for Liverpool

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp believes his decision to move Adam Lallana into a more central position at the start of this season is paying dividends.

The 28-year-old England international moved onto seven assists for the season on New Year’s Eve, crossing for Georginio Wijnaldum to head home the winner against Manchester City.

Lallana has also scored seven goals himself so far this term, making him one of the most effective operators in the Premier League and propelling Liverpool into second place at the halfway mark.

And Klopp reckons Lallana’s agility and quick movement are key to playing as the spearhead of the Reds’ midfield.

“We thought it made sense for us,” he said.

“He is very good in small spaces. He is a very quick player but his biggest strength is not being quick, it’s decision-making in small spaces.

“He can open the game for you in one-on-one situations; when everybody would have pressure, he doesn’t have it because his movements are that quick.

“[He has] wonderful orientation. He needed to adapt a little bit, you’ll remember against Arsenal he lost the ball, for example.

“But that’s all about orientation – he has all the technical abilities for playing there.”