Defender Joel Matip is hopeful that Liverpool’s current ruthlessness can frighten his side’s Premier League opponents.
The summer signing from Schalke has settled in superbly and has already made a difference to the Liverpool back four, coming out on top against Jamie Vardy and Diego Costa in recent weeks.
Matip has quickly bought into Jurgen Klopp’s wish for high intensity football and has set his sights on using this to strike fear into Liverpool’s rivals.
When asked about his objectives, he told the Liverpool Echo: “To play as a team and to have a great spirit together.”
“To be compact and use the skills of my team-mates and myself and to press teams so that no opponent is safe with the ball. That they always have to be afraid that we are coming!”
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While the goals fly in for Liverpool up top, Matip remains keen to help strengthen his team defensively and ensure the clean sheets begin to come.
He added: “We will work hard towards getting better and keeping clean sheets because sometimes we may only be able to score one goal and we want that to be enough to win.”
“A solid defence always helps to win games and it is always necessary for a good team.”
As a free transfer, the 25-year-old looks to be an inspired summer signing.
He is already a first choice centre-back under Klopp and has taken to the physicality and quick tempo of the Premier League in impressive fashion.
He said: “There is so much competition in this league – no other country has the same level of competition.”
“Both leagues have a high tempo but I think in the Premier League there are many more situations where there is a greater physicality. That is the most specific difference: needing to use your body more.”
It’s been a great start. Let’s get that first league clean sheet now, Joel.