Joel Matip renaissance has been vital for Liverpool’s title charge

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When Joe Gomez got injured in November against Burnley, many predicted that Liverpool would suffer.

While some iffy performances against the likes of Leicester City,West Ham United, Manchester United and Everton (all draws) have allowed Manchester City back in, the Reds have still been fairly solid at the back having conceded only twice in those games.

Of course Virgil van Dijk has been a massive reason for Liverpool success at the back, but one man who deserves some major credit is Gomez’s replacement Joel Matip.

The Cameroon international has slotted in alongside the Dutchman and has really done his bit to keep things tight in front of goalkeeper Alisson.

TBR’s view

van Dijk has been immense for Liverpool and will rightfully be challenging for this year’s PFA Player of the Year gong, but Matip’s contributions should not be overlooked.

The former Schalke ace has been in brilliant form for Jurgen Klopp’s team and has done a great job of replacing Gomez, who suffered a setback in January (The Liverpool Echo).

Klopp clearly appreciates his efforts and has now started Matip in each of the last 12 games across all competitions.

He appears to have struck up a great understanding with van Dijk and perhaps Liverpool’s bid for the title will hinge on keeping that pairing together for the sake of momentum.

Since the 3-0 win over Bournemouth on February 9, Matip has had a brilliant average match rating of 7.30 (via WhoScored).

He was arguably fourth-choice centre-back at the start of the season, but now his timely renaissance could help Liverpool win a first-ever Premier League title.