Flanagan: I've been studying new system
Part of Jon Flanagan's homework during a lengthy injury lay-off was to studiously assess the requirements of playing in Brendan Rodgers' thriving 3-4-3 formation.
A knee injury has prevented the Scouser from making a single appearance for Liverpool so far this season, stifling an upward trajectory for the young Englishman.
After months of hard work in rehabilitation, however, Flanagan has now declared himself fit and keen to serve a reminder of his ability in the remainder of the campaign.
To that end, the No.38 knew it was important to understand the mechanics of a system that has drastically transformed the Reds' form during the past three months.
"I've been looking at the formation we have been playing, where I could fit in and what I could do in those situations," he outlined to Liverpoolfc.com at Melwood, a couple of doors down from the analysis department.
"It's working well. Formations can change, but I think I could slot into that formation. I'm always looking to progress and be better in my game. New formations are only going to help me."
The manager has fielded a succession of different players in either wing-back role, right or left, since switching to the current set-up at Old Trafford in December.
Jordan Henderson, Jordon Ibe, Lazar Markovic, Alberto Moreno and Raheem Sterling to name a few. Flanagan said: "They have all been great and done a job.
"That's credit to the manager that he has got them playing that way, and they know the role when they go in there. It's credit to him.
"There's a lot of competition for places in our team, there's always going to be. I don't mind fighting for a place. The main thing is that I am 100 per cent fully fit, and I'll fight for my place."
As one would suspect, the 22-year-old is determined to make up for lost time once he does have an opportunity to step onto the turf again for Liverpool.
His contribution will be welcome too, with the Reds chasing down a Champions League qualification position and attempting to lift the FA Cup.
"It's exciting times," added Flanagan. "The momentum we have got now is very good and hopefully we can continue with that.
"Hopefully we can go to Blackburn, do a job there and have a Wembley trip. It's exciting for us and exciting for the fans. Hopefully we can get to the final.
"I just want to get back fit, try to get back in the team and hopefully try to win the FA Cup and get into the top four."