Fabinho has revealed that Jurgen Klopp told him to be more communicative as he stepped in for Virgil van Dijk in Liverpool's win over Ajax.
After sustaining an injury against Everton, Van Dijk looks set to be out for the majority of the rest of the season, leaving a big hole at the heart of the Reds' defence.
Yet Fabinho performed magnificently against Ajax, clearing a shot off the line in the 1-0 win as he stepped in at the back despite being a natural midfielder.
Talking to Viaplay Fotball post-match, the Brazilian explained he has to play a more vocal role in the team in the absence of Van Dijk.
He said: "Tactically I have to always be ready for the long balls and try and organise the team.
"It's not easy as I have to do a little bit of what Virgil always does and talk to the team and try and be a leader.
"Of course I'm not Virgil but I'll do my best.
"It's very important for me for the team to keep a clean sheet for the confidence of the team."
He added: "I try to do my best, of course the manager says I have to talk more to the team and organise them.
"Sometimes I use phrases like second ball or be ready, or tell the team to press well.
Ajax vs Liverpool
"I try to do this role as well and do my best."
The Brazilian revealed that Van Dijk will be missed in more ways than one during his injury absence.
Describing the shock at discovering how long Van Dijk will be out for, Fabinho said the towering Dutchman's presence in the dressing room will be missed just as much as his ability on the football pitch.
He said: "Personally, when I knew Virgil was out for a long time, it was a little bit like a shock.
"I think he's the best defender in the world right now and most of all he's a leader in the team and the dressing room.
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"He always keeps a good mood and a good atmosphere and of course we'll miss this.
"We have to keep going, we have to try and do the best to win the games for him as well.
"We have Thiago, Alisson and Joel Matip out injured right now but they're trying to recover as quick as possible.
"We have to play and try and win every game."
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