Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has said what he asked Nathaniel Phillips before his Premier League debut against West Ham United, as quoted on BBC Sport (20:02).
Phillips made his debut in the league for the Reds in their 2-1 win against West Ham at Anfield on Saturday evening.
Klopp was impressed by the display produced by the 23-year-old centre-back, and has shared what he asked the Englishman before the match.
The Liverpool boss said about Phillips, as quoted on BBC Sport (20:02): “The counter-press of the two centre-halves was exceptional. Nat Phillips, wow.
“I couldn’t be more happy. I asked him before the game if he was nervous. I told him I would be. He was awake from the first second, played his stuff and had a good game.”
How did Nathaniel Phillips play?
Phillips had made just one competitive appearance for Liverpool before Saturday, and that was in the FA Cup.
The 23-year-old took everything in his stride against the Hammers and did not appear fazed at all.
The youngster was brilliant in the air, looked comfortable on the ball, and was a rock at the back.
According to WhoScored, Phillips played one key pass, had a pass accuracy of 81.5%, won five headers, took 96 touches, and made two interceptions and nine clearances.
It was a very encouraging performance from Phillips, and he will now hope for an extended run in the first team, as Liverpool aim to win the Premier League title for the second year in a row.
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