But Klopp does not want to pin the England international to one position.

"We still have to make decisions on what is best for the team and Trent sees it exactly the same way," he said.

"Trent can play midfield, we all knew that and he can play the role really well.

"If he wants to be good he has to be influential from all different areas because it makes us better."

Alexander-Arnold's attacking instincts have led to some criticism of his defensive attributes and questions over whether he would be more effective further forward.

He started both of England's European qualifiers against North Macedonia and Malta in central midfield during the November international break.

The 25-year-old was back at full-back when Liverpool resumed Premier League action at champions Manchester City, but did score a late equaliser in the 1-1 draw at Etihad Stadium.

"Trent became one of the most successful players in the history of Liverpool. In the recent history, he became a Premier League player as a right-back so he will play wherever it's best for us and that's just how it is and Trent sees it exactly the same way," added Klopp.

"I'm not stubborn and don't want to play him midfield, not at all, but I am not part of the discussion. You [the media] can discuss it as much as you want but it will not have any influence.

"He wants to play and from my point of view he has to be influential and we have to make sure we help him with the positioning.

"If you want to be good he has to be influential from all different areas because it just makes us better if he plays a good game."

Joel Matip was forced off after 67 minutes against Fulham and replaced by Ibrahima Konate

Meanwhile, defender Joel Matip could be set for a lengthy spell on the sidelines after Klopp said his knee injury "doesn't look good".

Matip was forced off during the second half of Sunday's win against Fulham at Anfield.

"The scan is not done yet so we don't know exactly but it is not great," said Klopp, whose side travel to Sheffield United on Wednesday.

"I don't know the exact timescale but it doesn't look good. That is something we can say.

"I spoke to him and said: 'Ah no, that is not good'. But how long [he will be injured for], we don't know."

Forward Diogo Jota and goalkeeper Alisson suffered muscle injuries during last month's draw at Manchester City, though they are not expected to be out long-term.

The Merseyside club are also without full-back Andy Robertson as he recovers from shoulder surgery, while midfielders Thiago Alcantara and Stefan Bajcetic have yet to make an appearance this season because of hip and adductor injuries respectively.