Liverpool midfielder Ryan Gravenberch speaking to TNT Sports
Ryan Gravenberch has made a big impression on Arne Slot
Ryan Gravenberch has thanked Arne Slot for helping him find his rhythm at Liverpool after admitting it was 'difficult' playing a bit-part role under Jurgen Klopp last year.
The Netherlands international, 22, joined the Reds from Bayern Munich as part of a midfield overhaul last season, which turned out to be Klopp's final one at the helm.
Gravenberch started just 12 times in the Premier League under Klopp but has already clocked up more starts (14) under Slot this term. Furthermore, Gravenberch has starred in a deeper role after being trusted to play as Liverpool's first-choice defensive pivot.
The player himself has credited Slot for his fine start to the season, which he says is down to confidence and a run of games. "Now I play a lot of games as a starter, so it’s a little bit different. The coach gave me confidence when I needed it and I'm happy that I can show myself again," Gravenberch told TNT Sports.
[
Liverpool's Ryan Gravenberch responds to glowing comparisons with Real Madrid icon](https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/news/liverpool-ryan-gravenberch-toni-kroos-34281490)
"Just the run of games, you really need it to be honest," he added. "Sometimes it's really hard. For example, if you're on the bench and the next game you play good, the next game you're on the bench, then you come in for 10 minutes, then the 10 minutes are not really going how you want it.
"Then the next game you’re on the bench again, so that’s difficult. So yeah, just the run of games - that gives you the confidence if you’re doing good on the pitch.
"I'm happy that I'm playing. To be on the pitch again for 90 minutes and I can show off myself."
Join the debate! What have you made of Gravenberch this season, Liverpool fans? Let us know here
Gravenberch started just 12 Premier League games during Jurgen Klopp's final year at the helm
Gravenberch echoed similar sentiments earlier in the season when he went out of his way to praise Slot for giving him back his confidence after a difficult maiden campaign under Klopp.
Speaking back in September, the midfielder told Sky Sports: "This season I wanted to show myself again and I am really happy. He put me in the starting 11 and gave me a lot of confidence. I think a team like Liverpool always has to be in the top four.
"We keep pushing but it’s still really early. We knew this was always going to be difficult for us. I think after 20 or 25 minutes we did really well and we got the three points so I’m really happy with that."
Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.