Liverpool had a positive transfer deadline day, landing to new signings to bolster Jurgen Klopp’s squad.
The Reds secured the surprise signing of Preston North End defender Ben Davies, bringing in a left-footed centre back to provide depth at the back.
Liverpool then went and added Schalke defender Ozan Kabak on loan until the end of the season, with the option of a permanent move.
So just why did Liverpool go and sign two centre backs on deadline day? Well, that has now become very clear.
Klopp has confirmed to the club’s official website that defender Joel Matip will now be out for the rest of the season.
Matip picked up an ankle injury in Thursday’s 3-1 win at Tottenham Hotspur, and Liverpol have received the news that it is ligament damage.
“Unfortunately, we found out now after everybody looked at it that Joel will be out for the rest of the season. But he will be ready for the start of the next pre-season and finally everything will be sorted,” said Klopp.
Matip joins Virgil van Dijk and Joe Gomez in suffering season-ending injuries, which explains why Liverpool added two centre backs on deadline day.
Davies and Kabak won’t wish Matip any harm, but may now feel they have an opportunity to shine at Anfield in his absence, with Klopp’s centre back options very much in flux.
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