By support

25th Oct, 2016 | 12:20pm

John Aldridge: This Liverpool player has become their organiser

By Dominic Toner

John Aldridge believes that Joel Matip is the “chief organiser” in the Liverpool defence.

The 25-year-old has settled very quickly since his move to Anfield in the summer, with the Reds capturing the centre-back on a free transfer.

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has preferred a partnership of Matip and Dejan Lovren in defence, with the pair helping the Merseyside club enjoy a fine start to the league.

The Reds are currently third-placed in the Premier League, only behind league leaders Manchester City on goal difference, but have been criticised with their handling of set-pieces.

Ex-Liverpool striker Aldridge believes that despite the struggles from corners, the club’s summer recruit Matip has been a fantastic addition.

“They may have ongoing issues with set-pieces, but overall I believe the Reds appear a lot more solid at the back,” Aldridge wrote in the Echo. “And a main reason for that is the form of Joel Matip.

“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.”

The defender is currently experiencing his first taste of English football after leaving German side Schalke.

He graduated through the club’s youth set up and went on to make 258 appearances in their first team.

The height of Matip makes him a real threat in the air and he appears to have steadied the Liverpool defence.

In other Liverpool news, Klopp has shared his thoughts on the club’s academy and revealed is hopes for future transfer windows.