Emre on positions, fans, form and hair

It was just one month ago that Can celebrated his landmark birthday, which he marked with a low-key trip back to Germany to enjoy a slice of cake with his parents.

The Frankfurt native's softly spoken nature is in stark contrast to his demeanour on the field, though the intelligence he uses when answering questions is akin to his tactical nous in games.

From Leverkusen to Liverpool and midfield to defence, he's taken it all in his galloping stride. And now? Elevation to one of the most revered players on the Kop. Supporters are even trying to come up with a song for him.

"I would be really happy about that," he smiles in conversation with Liverpoolfc.com. "I haven't heard anything about a song, but if it did happen, I'd be delighted.

"I go on Instagram and Facebook a lot and I have read a lot of comments from supporters. It makes me very happy. Liverpool have brilliant fans and they're always behind the team, both in good and bad times - and that is fantastic.

"I keep hearing that I am becoming a fans' favourite and it feels great."

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Part of Can's charm is his ability to switch positions effortlessly. Since coming on as a substitute during Liverpool's Boxing Day win at Burnley, he's primarily operated on the right side of a three-man defence deployed by Brendan Rodgers.

The Reds have conceded just five Barclays Premier League goals following that snowy afternoon at Turf Moor. The six-footer has also shifted back into midfield when required.

"From my point of view, it doesn't matter where I play," Can states. "The main thing is to be on the pitch where I can help the team.

"If I can help the team by playing in midfield, then I will play in midfield. If I am needed at the back, I will play in defence.

"I'm fitter now and it means I can perform. Luckily, the manager is playing me and I am gaining in confidence the more I play. Now I am looking to produce consistency in my game and good performances."

And help the team he has. So much so, assistant manager Colin Pascoe described him as a 'leader' during his pre-Crystal Palace media briefing.

"I am only 21 but I am the type of player that talks on the pitch," says Can. "That's the way I am and I have always been like that.

"I can't see myself changing; I think it's just my way that pushes me into taking on a leadership role on the pitch."

It'd be remiss to put Liverpool's new-found defensive solidity entirely on Can.

He's been assisted by his more practiced colleagues - most notably Martin Skrtel and Mamadou Sakho alongside him in that three-man defensive wall, and the in-form Simon Mignolet between the sticks.

"Martin and Mamadou have been very helpful to me," he says.

"They are both expert central defenders and that is very, very important. They talk to me a lot - before, during and after games.

"They help me a lot, they are both top players and it's great to work with them. I am very grateful for the help they give me.

"In the last game against Tottenham, Simon made an incredible save and that kept us in the game.

"We went on to score [and win], so we've got a lot to thank him for. In the games before that, he was outstanding. That gives us confidence at the back. He is doing a great job."

It is not just Can's football brain that has fans abuzz; his ability to foray forward with speed and power has drawn attention too.

"I think it's one of my strengths, running with the ball," Can explains. "I started doing it when I was young and I still do it now, so I would say it's one of my main strengths."

It was one such bolt forward in Tottenham territory that roused the Anfield crowd after they'd adjusted to the setback of seeing the visitors level the game at 2-2 via Mousa Dembele.

Ultimately, it was to be Liverpool's night; Mario Balotelli's prod beyond Hugo Lloris grasped a vital three points in the race for Champions League football.

"It was very important because we were playing our nearest rival in the league in Tottenham, who we are now one point behind. It was an important goal," Can reflected.

"I've been involved in a lot of good games here, but the mentality of the team was brilliant. We believed in ourselves and then Mario scored the winner. I am happy for him personally - and it also helped the team a lot. It was great that we won the game."

Can's English is progressing nicely courtesy of 'two lessons a week...sometimes three' although he still makes use of an interpreter while he sharpens his language skills.

He does, however, answer directly in English when quizzed about how he styles his hair - a request from the club's social media followers.

"What are they saying about my hair? They want to know what I use? I use a wax," Can reveals.

"Recently I thought about growing my hair long, but it didn't look so good and so I got it cut again.

"I have a full head of hair and my dad had the same. In fact, he's still got all of his hair.

"My hair is very thick. I use wax and I put more of it on for games - but for the look of it, whether it's pushed to the side, centre or back, I just do it as I feel."

It's quite appropriate that Can's hair is never out of place, as neither is he. He's fitted in perfectly both tactically and personally at Liverpool.