Joel Matip has been speaking to Sky Sports ahead of the Premier League clash between Liverpool and Everton at Anfield on Sunday.
Interestingly, the £140,000-a-week man shared some comments on his fellow centre-back Ibrahima Konate, which were pleasing to read.
What’s the story?
Well, Matip is clearly an excellent teammate, as he praised the Frenchman for his efforts when stepping into his place in the starting XI.
Speaking to Sky Sports, the 30-year-old said: “Ibra did it great, so no reason why he should not play also too, especially with my history of injuries, it also fitted quite good with my situation.”
Thankfully, the Cameroonian has been okay this season, making 37 appearances in all competitions, but mainly due to Jürgen Klopp rotating him with Konate.
The Reds had to be careful with their No.32 this term.
Last season, Matip only made 12 appearances as he struggled with ankle, thigh and groin issues.
Not many players would be happy about being left on the bench after regaining full fitness, but Matip is clearly aware that his body needs to be managed properly.
Liverpool have a gem in Joel Matip
When you have four quality centre-backs such as Virgil van Dijk, Joe Gomez, Konate and Matip, and can only start two at a time, you run the risk of upsetting some people.
However, Klopp will surely be delighted to hear Matip’s selfless comments, as he supports the 22-year-old Konate.
After all, when you’re going for a quadruple of trophies, you need all hands on deck.
Football is a squad game, and any individual who puts himself before the team won’t do themselves any favours at Anfield.
The same goes for the attack, as Klopp is yet to hear any moans from his five world class attackers in Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mane, Luis Diaz, Diogo Jota and Roberto Firmino.
To put it simply, Klopp has created an ideal atmosphere at Liverpool, where everyone seems to be loving their football right now – long may it continue.
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