It might be hard to believe, but the transfer window actually only opened today. Clubs have already been wheeling and dealing for weeks, but it was only from midnight that players could be registered.
And that means that Joel Matip is finally a Red, almost six months after the deal was first announced.
Sadly, it also means Kolo has finally left the club.
However – back to Matip: Bundesliga expert Jorg Jakob has been speaking to the Echo about our new defender and has been gushing in his praise, saying the Cameroon international has brains, brawn, and can score goals.
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“Joel’s definitely someone who remains balanced in his defending and tackling style,” he said.
“He doesn’t give away too many fouls which is important in modern football and for Gegenpressing. You get the ball and open the attack and you don’t have to foul with the tackling, just get the ball the right way and he’s a good passer.
“Joel has also scored some goals, especially from set pieces as he’s good in the air too. He is just what you want from a modern defender and is a major personality.
“Of course you need more toughness defending in the Premier League than the Bundesliga that’s for sure.
“But there’s a lack of football technique among some of the defenders in the Premier League so he should stand out”
… “good in the air”? Imagine having a serious threat from corners again! Heaven.