Jack Frankham explains why Mamadou Sakho and Joel Matip should be Liverpool’s first choice defenders.
The disappointment of the weekend shows that Liverpool have problems that need to be solved imminently. Jürgen Klopp’s Liverpool side haven’t got a problem with scoring goals; the Reds have scored the most goals in this calendar year. It’s the other end which is the problem and it has been for quite a while now.
Jürgen Klopp is trying to find a structure for our defence to work at, there hasn’t been any stability in defence for many years now. Rodgers used to switch to a 3-5-2 formation from a 4-2-3-1 during games. This lack of consistency would cost us in games.
Klopp this summer has bought Ragnar Klavan and Jöel Matip who is hoping he can start for Liverpool whilst he’s at the club. Klopp will be hoping that the defensive improvements will hit the ground running and will drastically solve the issues. Matip started with a an minor injury going into his Liverpool career and has played very little since.
Mamadou Sakho is a fans favourite but his actions in pre-season training has costed him a starting place in the first. He currently has an Achilles tendon injury is arguably Liverpool’s best centre back when fit.
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His presence in the box and his commanding play is dominant when playing. He’s become a popular player which is needed to succeed and has has passion and determination for the club which is outstanding and it should be more appreciated.
Joel Matip brings the same aggression but he’s also smart in defence. He’s defensive minded but always looks for the ball to move forward at pace. His tall presence gives a dynamic force going forward; we haven’t had that type of player since we had Danny Agger.
Both centre backs have immense strength. Matip was in the Bundesliga team of the season which shows that getting him on the free was fabulous business. He brings more experience than the average footballer.
Vice-captain was an option for Sakho last term due to his impressive performances. His leadership was underestimated and was the first name put on the team sheet.
Therefore Sakho and Joel Matip should be the number one pairing for this season. We need stability in defence and more clean sheets is the main priority but also looking for forward passes which is needed in Jürgen Klopp team.
News that Sakho might be loaned out could impact whether or not he plays an important role in the Liverpool team this season but he should as he proved last season just how good he can be in a red shirt.