Gerrard given new role

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez has told Steven Gerrard he will continue to use him in different positions ahead of the new season.

The England midfielder was often played as a foil to Fernando Torres last term and Benitez says Gerrard can expect more of the same in the upcoming campaign.

Gerrard is widely regarded as one of the best central midfielders in the world but has played out wide and as a forward for both club and country.

However, the Anfield boss says the acquisition of Robbie Keane has made his team even more flexible - and that Gerrard will once again be asked to play in various positions.

He said: "If we play a 4-4-2 formation then Gerrard can play as a midfielder. If we play with Torres on his own up front then Gerrard and Keane can play either side of him."

Benitez doesn't think his plan will bother Gerrard who has impressed the Spaniard whenever he has been played out of his preferred central role.

He said: "If he needs to adapt then he will adapt because he is a player of quality who can play in different positions."

On Keane's role, Benitez added: "He can play in maybe four positions in the team. I see him as a player who understands the game and who will always work hard. He knows what his manager wants him to do. I like players who can fit into different styles during a game."