How Liverpool meltdown against Bournemouth highlighted importance of 25-year-old
By Emma Sanders
Liverpool missed the presence of Joel Matip at centre-back during the dramatic 4-3 defeat against Bournemouth in the Premier League on Sunday afternoon.
The Cherries bounced back in the second-half to record a thrilling victory despite conceding two goals within the first 22 minutes of the match.
A late stoppage time goal from Nathan Ake rounded-off a sensational comeback display from the hosts following a defensive collapse from Jurgen Klopp’s side.
Matip was absent from the squad after picking up an injury during training prior to kick-off and Lucas, alongside Dejan Lovren, did not look comfortable.
The Cameroon defender, 25, has been in great form since joining the club on a free transfer in the summer and has formed a strong partnership with Lovren at centre-back.
Liverpool missed his tall presence, calmness and composure at the back during the 4-3 defeat and the loss highlighted just how important he’s been to the side so far.
In 13 appearances, he has conceded just nine goals while keeping five clean sheets and Liverpool are yet to suffer defeat with him in the side.
He was an ever-present at Schalke and became one of the best centre-backs in the Bundesliga due to his ability to read the game and to remain calm in the back four.
Liverpool desperately need his composure back in the team following their second-half collapse against Bournemouth, which showed how important he has become to Jurgen Klopp’s side.
In other Liverpool news, fans reacted with frustration on Twitter to Loris Karius’ display against Bournemouth.