James Milner has said that he believes that it is up to him to convince Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp not to buy a new left-back when the transfer window reopens.
The Reds veteran has been deployed as a makeshift full-back under the German in recent months, but rumours still circulate that Klopp could enter the market to purchase a new left-back when the winter window is opened in just six weeks' time.
Milner has adapted well to his new position on the field but, in an interview with The Times, insisted that he is all too aware that his form between now and January could be the difference between keeping his first-team spot for the rest of the season or face a spell on the subs' bench if a new recruit is drafted in.
He said: "It is down to me to make sure they don't buy a left back. He [Jurgen Klopp] doesn't owe me anything
"I am a Liverpool player, he is the manager, he picks the best team to win and it is my job to make sure that what is best for Liverpool is me.
"You read a lot about players not being honourable and loyal, but clubs are not loyal to players either, but we know what business it is."
Milner has been part of the side that has sent Liverpool to the top of the Premier League table after 11 matches, with his marauding runs from deep playing positions causinghavoc to opposition defences.
The 30-year-old, who is used to featuring as a centre midfielder, claims that the role of full-back has changed in recent seasons - and added that he didn't think he would be able to adapt to a more defensive minded role if asked to do so by any other coach other than Klopp.
He said: "Full back is a position which changes massively depending on who the manager is.
Liverpool's James Milner tells Paul Joyce how playing at left back proved a new beginning https://t.co/z3ETZq8r06 pic.twitter.com/rupGYuvotq
"A left-back now is different to a left-back ten years ago and that is why I have not studied anyone. It would be pointless, and a left back for Jürgen Klopp is going to be playing a lot different to a left back for another manager.
"I would find it harder playing left back for another manager in another system because Jurgen likes his full backs to play, he wants his teams to be fluid.
"There are going to be times when I will end up in centre midfield and centre midfield will be covering me."
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