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This star is the reason behind Liverpool's impressive form, claims Aldridge
JOHN ALDRIDGE has heaped praise on Liverpool defender Joel Matip.
Liverpool v Tottenham - Round of 16 League Cup match preview
Matip arrived from Schalke in the summer and has wasted no time in settling in to life on Merseyside.
The Cameroon international has established himself as a regular starter under Jurgen Klopp and has formed a solid partnership with Dejan Lovren at the back.
But the Reds have still conceded their fair share of goals this term - a problem Klopp has spoken about in recent weeks.
However, Aldridge, who made 83 league appearances for Liverpool, believes Matip has helped steady the ship at the back.
Joel Matip has impressed John Aldrige since his arrival from Schalke
He wrote in his column for the Liverpool Echo: "Do Liverpool have defensive problems?
"I can understand why Jurgen Klopp was a bit prickly when asked about his team's defending after Saturday's win against West Bromwich Albion.
"They may have ongoing issues with set-pieces, but overall I believe the Reds appear a lot more solid at the back.
"And a main reason for that is the form of Joel Matip.
"I've been really impressed with the Cameroonian since he stepped into the first team in September.
Matip put in a solid display against West Brom at the weekend
Dejan Lovren has formed a solid partnership with Matip at the back
"He's quickly assumed the role of chief organiser and, as I pointed out last week, he's already forming a sound partnership with Dejan Lovren at centre-back.
"Matip controls things, he has great composure and he helps to settle things down with the way he defends instead of being erratic.
"I feel we have been a bit unlucky with some of the goals we've conceded but the defending has been good. We look a lot more solid under Klopp than we have done for some time."
Matip is likely to feature tomorrow night when Liverpool host Tottenham in the EFL Cup (7.45pm).
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