Joel Matip’s form in 2019 has been exemplary, with arguably no player in the Premier League more improved in that time.
The Cameroonian has excelled since the turn of the year, benefiting from Joe Gomez’s long-term absence and making the centre-back alongside Virgil van Dijk is own.
Speaking in his press conference on Friday, Jurgen Klopp hailed Matip’s influence since arriving on a free transfer from Schalke in 2016:
In a world of big transfer fees, signing Joel Matip on a free was incredible.
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It is easy to forget that Matip was a divisive figure this time last year, with many supporters feeling he was both inconsistent and a little on the timid side.
He has been a revelation in recent months, however, producing some magnificent performances, one of which came in the Champions League final.
Despite Gomez being available again, Matip has become an indispensable member of Liverpool’s defence.
Only an injury should see him drop out of the side, as the Reds look to finally secure Premier League glory this season.
A likeable character, it has been so pleasing to see Matip go up such a huge gear – it is hard to think of a Premier League player who has improved more this year.
