A summer conversation with Jürgen Klopp included the news James Milner wanted to hear.

“At the start of the season, the manager pulled me in and said he was looking at me more in the midfield now, which I was obviously delighted with,” Liverpool’s vice-captain revealed.

“I didn’t play too much after that, but after that it’s down to me to force my way into the team, if you like. The manager’s always got to pick the team and he’s got a tough decision every time he does that because we’ve got a talented group of players and competition for places.

“So for me, as a player, you just want that chance to show. Over the years in my career, hopefully I’ve done enough to get a chance and now I’ve played a few games I just want to keep improving and keep contributing to the side.”

A run of three consecutive starts in the midfield berth Milner craves began with an outstanding display in the Reds’ record-breaking 7-0 Champions League victory over Maribor a fortnight ago.

And, speaking ahead of Wednesday’s return fixture at Anfield, the 31-year-old explained how much he is relishing being back in his preferred role after spending the majority of 2016-17 at left-back.

“Yeah, absolutely,” Milner replied, when asked if he’s enjoying his return to midfield.

“Obviously last season I was asked to do a job and did that as well as I could. I said at the time that I don’t enjoy playing there, I didn’t like it, but the team always comes first and you do what’s asked of you and that’s always the case.

“But I’ve definitely felt myself enjoying my football again in the midfield this year and I just want to get out there and contribute as much as I can to the side.”

However, he admitted it may take time to readjust to the demands of the position following his season in defence.

“I’ve played there in training but there’s nothing like playing in games as well, so it might take the odd game to get fully up to being 100 per cent comfortable in there or make it feel like normal,” Milner said.

“But like I said before I’m just enjoying being in there and just want to contribute. Hopefully I can get around the field and contribute at both ends.”

In Focus: Milner's Maribor masterclass

Former England international Milner had started just twice this term prior to his recent run in the Reds’ team - a situation that left him feeling ‘very frustrated’.

Nevertheless, he hopes his recent performances have proven his capability of being a regular in Klopp’s starting XI.

“Every player wants to play football and that’s what I want to do. The manager picks the team and if it’s not happening then you have to try to force your way in there and then when you do get a chance, if you do, try to take it,” the No.7 noted.

“I’ve played the last three games [and] hopefully I’ve done enough to stake a claim for that shirt.

“We’ve got so many games and such a talented squad of players, there’s going to be rotation, there’s going to be changes, injuries, suspensions, things like that, but as an individual you just want to perform as well as you can, get that chance to perform and then it’s down to the manager to pick the team.”