Joel Matip: Mr I can do my job at the highest level for Liverpool
Two men who have really turned doubters into believers in the reign of Jurgen Klopp is Joel Matip and James Milner.
These are also the two players who are to be compensated by the club for their great showings in the 2018-2019 campaign, in this ever-improving Liverpool team.
Having just finished a piece on James Milner, I now write a separate piece on the other player who will get a contract renewal after the Champions League wraps up.
Matip was one of the Klopp additions and came on a free transfer, exactly like Milner. When arriving he was always considered the third or fourth choice.
Or so we thought!
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Klopp’s defence is the most improved segment from last season. Before recording the best defensive record in the Premier League, the Reds had troubles at the back and were one of the worst defending clubs of the top six.
A few changes in the spine was required to achieve better results. In came a commanding centre back in the shape of Virgil van Dijk (during January 2018). A defensive midfielder who has proven to be more astute in the role of protecting the back four, Fabinho.
Then the last piece, Liverpool brought in (what was at the time the most expensive goalkeeper signing) Alisson Becker. The spine was complete with every vertebra intact.
Joe Gomes was then moved over and given the role of van Dijk’s partner. That was the case until he was sadly lost to injury. So with both Lovren and Gomes out, Matip was the only blocker left.
He stepped in and now can’t be overlooked
The Cameroonian slotted in next to Virgil as if the two played together at a previous club. Not only has he provided a notable aerial presence, but he’s also been brilliant with the ball at his feet.
He has made sure for most games his name is on the team sheet first. He has aided in the 22-goals conceded in 38 Premier League games. Also, his most standout performance came two weeks back when he left the stadium with Messi in his pocket.
Next. UCL Final Buildup. dark
It will be extremely surprising to see Matip start on the bench in the final come Saturday. Little confidence boosters going around for the players to fill that extra bit world class before the Champions League final.
From being on the fringe at the club to making yourself an established first team player, has always been the story under Jurgen Klopp.