New Liverpool signing explains how Jurgen Klopp can help him
Joel Matip is ready to prove his value to Liverpool supporters after summer transfer
Joel Matip is confident Jurgen Klopp will help the new Liverpool signing reach another level at Anfield.
The Cameroon international completed a move to the 18-time English champions on Friday afternoon after the Reds agreed a deal with the Schalke defender in the January transfer window.
I think I have got enough to play here
Joel Matip
Matip, who is one of four new arrivals at the Merseyside outfit this summer, will wear the number 32 shirt for the five-time European Cup winners in the Premier League next season.
The 24-year-old defender will provide competition for a centre-half spot against France international Mamadou Sakho, Euro 2016 star Martin Skrtel and ex-Southampton star Dejan Lovren.
And Matip, who has made 27 appearances for the Cameroon national team, spoke about the challenge of swapping the Bundesliga for the Premier League this coming season.
“I’m a defender and I’m good in the air and on the ground,” Matip told Liverpool’s website. “I always want to look in front of me, I’m always good for a few goals.
“I am ready for English football but I also have work to do on my body.
“This is another league, so I will have to work on my body to play here and to be physically strong enough for the Premier League.
“I decided to do it myself, but I think the coaching staff and manager will help me reach this level and to be fit for the season.
“Of course, the Bundesliga is at a high level. Maybe it’s a different level, but it’s also a high level and I think I have got enough to play here.”
The African centre-half has scored three goals and has made three assists in 35 Bundesliga appearances for Schalke last season.
Liverpool have already signed Germany goalkeeper Loris Karius and Southampton forward Sadio Mane this summer, while Marko Grujic has moved to Liverpool from Red Star Belgrade.
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The Reds finished in eighth place in the Premier League table last term.
