'I impress myself!' - Ryan Gravenberch admits he's surprised by his Liverpool performances since changing role under Arne Slot

Gravenberch returned from Euro 2024 to a new head coach in Arne Slot and the Dutch duo have hit it off immediately. Under Jurgen Klopp, the midfielder was deployed as a number eight, pushing higher up the pitch to support the attack. Now, under Slot, Gravenberch is used more of number six and says he is enjoying life in Liverpool's new era.

Speaking to club media, Gravenberch said: "When I first spoke with the coach he said to me: 'I see you as a No.8 like last season, but I want to try you as a No.6 as well'... I said to him: 'Of course, we can do it!' and the rest is history. To be honest as an eight you are more attacking and not a lot of defending. But the defending part I do also really well, so I impress myself a little bit.

"Back in the days when I played with Ajax in the youth [team] I didn't like to defend! I didn't like that much. But now when you take off the ball from another player it's like: 'Yes, I have it!' I want to take the next one and the next one again. I enjoy it."

Gravenberch's new role has been key to Liverpool's success under Slot so far. The 14-cap international has featured in all but one game for the Reds so far this season - the Carabao Cup win over West Ham. He may not have clocked any goals or assists yet, but Gravenberch is doing the dirty work in midfield that often goes unnoticed, allowing the Merseyside club to dominate, and more often than not, beat their opponents.

Before he joins up with the Dutch national team for the next round of Nations League games, Gravenberch will be in line to start against Crystal Palace in the Premier League. A win will ensure Liverpool remain top of the table during the international break.