Graeme Souness, the Liverpool legend, has expressed his concern about the team’s reliance on Joel Matip, citing his recurring fitness issues.
Souness has suggested that Liverpool should seek a replacement for Matip, who earns £100,000 per week according to Spotrac.
In Souness’s view, while Liverpool’s defense and goalkeeper are of high quality, there is a need for better midfield balance in the defensive department.
He believes that acquiring another central defender is crucial because Matip has struggled to maintain fitness throughout a demanding Premier League season.
Matip, the 32-year-old Cameroonian player, has faced injury challenges in recent years.
Liverpool should ideally target a world-class defender in their mid-20s who can quickly contribute to the team, according to the consensus opinion.
In the current Premier League season, Matip has made just two appearances. Last season, he started 12 matches and came on as a substitute twice in the Premier League, scoring one goal.
He also made two starts and two substitute appearances in the UEFA Champions League, scoring another goal.
Matip’s contract with Liverpool is set to expire in the summer of 2024, which adds urgency to the need for a long-term defensive solution.
Graeme Souness on Joel Matip
Souness told The Mirror, as transcribed by TBR:
“I think the defence is more than good enough, the goalkeeper is more than good enough, but the blend in the midfield is not quite right.
I’d like to see them get another central defender, Matip can’t keep himself fit for a long, hard Premier League year.”
What we believe is that the Reds already have a commendable frontline, and now they have also reinforced the midfield, thus, it is quite clear that the Merseysiders will go for a defensive rebuild next summer.
What’s Next for Liverpool?
Next up for Liverpool is a trip to Molineux Stadium as they will be resuming their camp after the international break against Wolves on the coming Saturday.
Liverpool is my Religion and Anfield is my Church. 17th May 1996 the date I had my blood coloured red. The one you love the most you can not live without it and that is football to me.
