Liverpool legend Mark Lawrenson is convinced of the quality of Emre Can.

Can has impressed for Germany at the U21 Euros this month.

Lawrenson believes he has the ability to step into Steven Gerrard's shoes.

He told the Sunday Express: “Yeah, I think Can's a very capable player, wherever he plays.

“But you just feel with him, the further up the pitch he goes – another 15, 20 yards – I think he can have more effect on the team. The ball- playing and creativity.

“At right-sided centre-back, he saw a pass because you've got a bit more time and you'd hope he'd still be able to see that pass 15 yards further forward.

“Maybe Emre Can was their best player in the back three [last season]."