An opportunity to play before the famous Anfield crowd is one no player will every forget, so much so that Joel Matip is still reminiscing over this very memory.
The defender has hailed the impact that Liverpool’s fans have on the team and has described his impressions after stepping out for his first home game this season.
He told the Liverpool Echo: “Every home game is so special and enjoyable. The atmosphere the fans generate really encourages us as players. It drives us on, knowing the fans are right behind us.”
“Before my first home game I was stood in the middle of the pitch looking around Anfield.”
“The Kop was singing and I was like ‘woooah’. It was an amazing feeling to be out there in the middle.”
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Matip made his first Anfield appearance in the 4-1 win over Leicester earlier this season and has, since then, quickly become a favourite amongst supporters.
His calm and assured approach to the game has made him a stand out member of Jurgen Klopp’s defence so far this campaign, sparking excitement over just how much he can help our back four improve.
The centre-back seems to have brought the best out of Dejan Lovren alongside him and has evolved into the demanding and influential defensive figure his manager would have wanted him to become, upon his arrival in the summer.
Get used to the Anfield atmosphere, Joel. The way you’re playing, you’ll be experiencing it on a weekly basis, for years to come.