Kuyt: I'll play anywhere

The Holland international was selected in a natural striking role on Saturday - and responded with two crucial goals.

However, Kuyt accepts the switch won't be permanent.

He said: "I didn't feel any added pressure stepping in for Fernando up front. He was always going to be a big loss, but when the boss turned to me and asked me to fill in, I was more than pleased.

"People go on about my role in the team, but I can honestly say it doesn't concern me. All I am bothered about is playing and contributing, and I feel I have been doing both this season.

"It is important for the team to have Fernando back as soon as possible, and if that means a return to the right flank for me, I won't be complaining.

"Wherever the manager needs me to play, I'll be there, giving it my best. I don't see this as a chance to stake a claim for a place up front alongside him when he is fit. That has never crossed my mind.

"I have enjoyed my time on the right and feel I have contributed with a few goals and a few assists. Honestly, it would be fine either way for me."

Liverpool came from behind to win for the fifth time this season on Saturday against a Wigan side buoyed by the class of Egyptian striker Amr Zaki.

Kuyt believes the victory once again proved how far he and his teammates have come since a frustrating draw in the corresponding fixture 10 months ago.

"We showed plenty to pull it out of the fire like that. In a way, it showed how far we have come since last season," said the 28-year-old.

"We have improved massively, and you can be sure we would only have drawn or maybe even lost a game like this 12 months ago. We passed a test with this win. We took another step forward by pulling it round and taking the points, despite not being at our best.

"We don't want to have to dig deep like that too often, but I don't think we will.

"No-one can say we haven't turned it on at times this season, but now we've shown we have what it takes when questions are asked of us."