"His emergence as an important member of the squad has been helped significantly by being played at full-back," he said.
"He hasn't been outstanding in that role but it has allowed him to bed in to the team and become accustomed to playing alongside regulars like Sami Hyypia and Jamie Carragher.
"That experience has been a big bonus for him and its showed on Saturday in his more natural position. He looks comfortable in that role and he displayed confidence because he is used to playing in the team."