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Ryan Gravenberch has hailed Liverpool boss Arne Slot and discussed the changed role that he has given the Dutchman at the base of the Reds' midfield this season.
Against Everton in the Merseyside derby, Gravenberch scored and assisted as Liverpool went 2-0 in front. While the Reds conceded a goal early in the second period, they did hold on for the victory in the end.
"It’s the coach that gives me the confidence," Gravenberch said live on TNT Sports. "This season, we have more freedom in the midfield. Last season, I was only on the six, like deep, deep. Now I can go more forward, which you saw today.
"My strength is also there. I’m happy with that and also happy with the goal. Last season, I think I didn’t even score.
"So, of course this season I want more goals and assists. I’m really happy with today.
"Now we are top of the league, and it’s always nice to win a Merseyside derby. I’m really happy, going to recover and we keep going on Tuesday."
Gravenberch was excellent alongside Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai, and he has begun the season in flying form. The 23-year-old has really kicked on since Slot arrived just over a year ago.
"He’s very clear," Gravenberch said of his fellow countryman. "What comes to his mind, he tells you. And also the tactical part is really good.
"We know we have a good group. We bought players as well, really good players, so we know it’s not only the starting XI, it’s the whole team.
"We are like a family, so we push each other. You see now for example, Hugo [Ekitike] scored today and then [Alexander] Isak comes in and gives his all. I’m really happy with the squad."
While Liverpool has won six games out of six now in all competitions, there is still more to come.
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"We had three games in seven days," Gravenberch said after he starred at Burnley and against Atletico Madrid too. "We know in England it’s really tough.
"But we prepared well and at the end we are happy with the three points, so we keep going now.
"First the goal we conceded, I think that didn’t need to happen. It was that, and then we know if they score the 2-1 they will come, they will come, they will come.
"We were a little bit going back and going for the counter. We had chances to score at the end but we didn’t, and it will be difficult."
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