Gerrard set to get central role

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Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has revealed he is set to finally be handed a central midfield role.

Manager Rafael Benitez has deployed Gerrard on the right flank, prompting reports of a rift between the pair.

Bolo Zenden was preferred in central midfield in the 3-0 defeat at Arsenal, even with Momo Sissoko out injured.

But Gerrard said ahead of the match at Middlesbrough: "I spoke with Benitez and he said I would get a lot more time in the middle now Sissoko is out."

Gerrard also figured in the centre in England's 1-1 draw against Holland in Amsterdam.

He then took the opportunity to stress his preference for the centre rather than on the right flank, a move by Benitez that has been a source of debate as Liverpool have struggled in the Premiership.

Gerrard said: "I always enjoy it there in the middle. That's where I feel I can get the best out of myself.

"The formation worked and the positive thing is we know we can use another formation now with 4-3-3 as well as 4-4-2.

"We need to build on this performance for the next qualifier."