Three things we learnt from Manchester United’s 0-0 draw with Liverpool

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Emre Can Is A Difficult Player To Pin Down

Can came into last night’s frenetic encounter after an injury lay off, and found it difficult to get into the pace of the game. A more defensive player than Giorgino Wijnaldum who he replaced in the side, he and Henderson were quite square which blunted Liverpool as an offensive force. In many respects it was reminiscent of Henderson and Eric Dier’s partnership for England in Slovenia last week; both sat deep rather than one drifting forward to offer another option for the player on the ball.

The German midfielder has plenty in his locker; he is still only 23, has physical presence and sound technique. Yet he remains an enigmatic figure and a difficult player to analyse. Is he a defensive midfielder who is tasked with ball-winning duties? Or should he be given greater license to play higher up the pitch? At times Can seemed quite cumbersome in possession and in the first half slowed Liverpool down. However, on other occasions he demonstrates the ability to dribble with the ball and beat opponents with ease. His role in Klopp’s plans remains unclear.