Emre Can's natural footballing instincts and versatility will ensure he proves a bargain signing for Liverpool in the years to come, according to manager Brendan Rodgers.

The German youth international arrived at Anfield last summer with a reputation for being capable of thriving in a variety of different positions on the field.

In addition to his most traditional role in central midfield, the Reds' No.23 can be deployed in defence too - as seen to significant effect in recent weeks.

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For example, Can began last weekend's meeting with Sunderland as part of the backline, before moving into an advanced berth and later wide during the 1-0 victory.

Rodgers explained today: "He played on the right side of a back three, we moved him up to play at the top of the midfield box and then put him back in to play in a sort of wide midfield role.

"That's one of the reasons we brought him here - he's a footballer and sometimes you find that the very best footballers, you can play them in any position on the field.

"They are capable of working the game out and tactically participating in the game. He was always just going to need a little bit of time, moving from a new country and a very young player.

"He had a little bit of experience, but you have to remember that he only had one full year of playing. He came through the system at Bayern Munich and went to Leverkusen, and it was only one year of playing that he's had.

"He's shown his value and there's absolutely no doubt that over the coming years he'll prove to be a real bargain for us.

"It was a lot of money for a young player but he is a wonderful talent and a great footballer. His stature and power is well suited to the Barclays Premier League.

"He's a wonderful footballer; two-footed, got great balance and good aggression in his game. He's multi-functional - he will prove to be a player that can play in a number of positions very well here. As you have seen since he has come in, he has been outstanding."