Mac Allister: I really enjoy the role I am playing for the team

Alexis Mac Allister says he has grown into the holding midfield role as the season has progressed and is more than happy that it is playing a part in the success of the team.

The Argentinian moved to Liverpool from Brighton where he was one of the creative architects of their top six finish in the league and reaching the semi-final of the FA Cup.

With Liverpool’s midfield in desperate need of regeneration and some attacking impetus, it was thought the 25 year-old would play a big role in that.

But after a failed bid to bring Mac Allister’s former teammate Moises Caicedo to the club and with Romeo Lavia also knocking back the chance to become a Liverpool player, it meant that there was a big void to fill in the holding midfield role and with options on the market limited, it meant Jurgen Klopp looked internally.

Mac Allister discussed the challenges in learning a different role but also outlined his enjoyment as the Mirror reported.

“At the beginning of the season, we didn't have a proper No 6 so I had to do the job - and Jurgen likes it! So I try to do my best and it's all about helping the team. It's quite different, because as a normal No 8 you need to be able to carry the ball more and use it more further forward.

“I like the way I am playing. I like that I'm helping my team-mates if they need any protection. In the position I am playing now, it's more about the defensive things. But at that same time, I'm able to get on the ball a lot and I really like it. I always said it was a position I really like and I think I can do it very well."

That level of confidence is spread throughout the team with no better example than the outstanding midweek performance against Chelsea.

But there is no time to dwell on that success with another major test against Arsenal today.

“We expect a very hard game at Arsenal, like it was in the FA Cup. It was a very tough game, they have very good players, they know what they want to do and have a clear idea of what they need to do.

“They want to win the game, just like we do. It's clear that we have improved a lot now as a team since the beginning of the season. You can see that every player who comes into the team knows exactly what they have to do.

‌“We are really pleased with our performances so far but we know that we've only just gone past the halfway mark in the season. We need to keep going. We know the potential of this team. If we keep playing like we are and did against Chelsea, then we can achieve something this season.”

Mac Allister said that quest has been aided by Klopp announcing that this season will be his last at the club.

“The manager saying he is leaving has given us a greater incentive.

“I don't know if that was his idea when he made the announcement, but it's definitely become an incentive.

“We all know what Jurgen means to this club and the fans - and we want the best for him. We really understand and respect his decision and now we want to do our best to give him a very good season before he leaves.”