Adam Lallana has dismissed suggestions that he is a man transformed under Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp.
The midfielder has been highly praised for his performances for the Reds so far this term, and has become an integral part of Klopp's starting line up thanks to his all-action, tireless displays on the pitch.
However, in an interview with Sport magazine, Lallana refuted the opinion that he had finally found his best form for Liverpool following the arrival of Klopp last October - though he did admit that his first season at Anfield had been tough for him.
He said: No, I don't really feel like a transformed man. Definitely not since last season.Look, when I first came to Liverpool I had a difficult first season “ there's no two ways about that.
But maybe that's a reason why I've come out the other side of it and am maybe stronger as a human. I learnt from it and I'm really enjoying myself here now.�
Adam Lallana isn't buying this idea of being a transformed man at Liverpool #LFC https://t.co/AJw85qDi40 pic.twitter.com/NcxbiHw3nX
Some Liverpool fans were left questioning Lallana's ability after Liverpool shelled out a reported £25m to bring him to Merseyside from Southampton in July 2014.
The forward was criticised in some quarters for not having the capability to play for a club of the stature of the Reds, but Lallana has turned those accusations on their head in recent months with some fine displays for his current side.
The England international has also registered three goals in nine appearances this season - an improvement in front of goal put squarely at the feat of Klopp.
Lallana puts Liverpool's improved fitness and form - both personally and at squad level - down to the length of time that the ex-Borussia Dortmund boss has now had in L4, despite insisting that not much has changed since the German took charge.
He added: I don't think there's much difference in terms of fitness to last season.
Listen, things are going to get written about you when the team is doing well and you've chipped in with a couple of goals.
Adam Lallana: 2 goals 2 assists in 5 v CPalace for Liverpool.
See who else is trending! https://t.co/GqPzVVs88P pic.twitter.com/m6PBjwYckV
I feel I was as important last season as I am this season to the manager. He's shown trust and belief in me since he's come here.
This season we're performing better as a team; I just think that's coincided with him being here the length of time he has and having a good pre-season. It's his squad now.
He's made the changes. Personally, I don't think there's too much different to last season, though.�
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